Tipping the Balance Toward Positive Futures for Patients: AI in Healthcare

Area of Science:

• Health policy
• Medical informatics
• Technology ethics

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) presents significant opportunities to enhance patient and provider experiences, improve health outcomes, and increase the efficiency and sustainability of healthcare systems.
• However, AI also carries risks that could negatively impact these areas and exacerbate existing inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify guiding principles for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare to maximize benefits and mitigate risks.
• To ensure AI implementation advances health equity.

Main Methods:

• A policy lab methodology was employed, bringing together diverse stakeholders to deliberate on AI in healthcare.
• Qualitative analysis of participant discussions and reflections from a patient partner informed the findings.

Main Results:

• Four key principles emerged: understanding AI's unique characteristics, right-sizing its application, co-designing solutions with end-users, and maintaining a steadfast focus on equity.
• These principles offer a framework for navigating AI's integration into healthcare.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to the identified principles is crucial for directing AI's trajectory toward positive impacts in healthcare.
• A deliberate and equitable approach is necessary to harness AI's full potential for improving health systems and outcomes.