Surrogates and Artificial Intelligence: Why AI Trumps Family

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Medical Decision-Making

Background:

• Increasingly accurate algorithms can predict patient values and preferences.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) may serve as a surrogate decision-maker for incapacitated patients.
• This technology is termed the autonomy algorithm (AA).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the ethical implications of using the AA as a surrogate decision-maker.
• To determine whether the AA or a relative should hold decision-making authority when a patient lacks a medical power of attorney.
• To advocate for the AA's sole decision-making authority in specific cases.

Main Methods:

• The study defines the autonomy algorithm (AA) as a technology that mines medical research, health records, and social media data.
• It analyzes the ethical question of AA versus familial surrogates for incapacitated patients without a medical power of attorney.
• The paper presents arguments for the AA's superiority in predicting patient preferences and avoiding bias.

Main Results:

• The AA is likely to be more accurate in predicting a patient's treatment preferences compared to familial surrogates.
• The AA can avoid biases that may influence human decision-makers.
• The AA offers a more patient-centered approach to medical decision-making.

Conclusions:

• The autonomy algorithm (AA) should be granted sole decision-making authority for incapacitated patients lacking a medical power of attorney.
• The AA's superior predictive accuracy and unbiased decision-making override the traditional reliance on familial surrogates.
• Ethical considerations favor the AA due to its potential for more accurate and patient-centered medical choices.