Digital pathology implementation in cancer diagnostics: towards informed decision-making.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Informatics
• Bioethics

Background:

• Digital pathology (DP) is integrated into cancer care, offering benefits but posing ethical challenges to the physician-patient relationship.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) in cancer diagnostics necessitates a re-evaluation of ethical obligations and physician responsibilities.
• The shift towards augmented human intelligence (AHI) in pathology highlights the need for transparency and informed decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the ethical imperative of transforming the physician-patient relationship in the context of AI-driven cancer diagnostics.
• To explore the benefits of augmented human intelligence (AHI) in digital pathology for improving diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment.
• To define physicians' duties in communicating AI tool usage, accuracy, limitations, and privacy measures to patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on digital pathology, AI in oncology, and medical ethics.
• Analysis of ethical frameworks concerning technology adoption in healthcare.
• Case study approach examining physician-patient communication strategies for AI-based diagnostic tools.

Main Results:

• Augmented human intelligence (AHI) in DP enhances diagnostic performance and personalized treatment planning.
• Patients have a right to know about AI tools, including their accuracy, limitations, and privacy safeguards.
• Physicians have an ethical duty to ensure transparency, build trust, and empower patients in AI-assisted cancer care.

Conclusions:

• Digital pathology and AI integration require a proactive ethical approach to maintain physician-patient trust.
• Informed consent and transparent communication are crucial for ethical AI implementation in cancer diagnostics.
• Empowering patients with knowledge about AI tools respects their autonomy and supports informed decision-making in oncology.