Rethinking expertise in artificial intelligence ethics for global health

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics
• Health Equity

Background:

• Current AI ethics debates in global health often overlook the perspectives of those most affected by AI technologies.
• There is a need to shift ethical authority from solely professional bodies to include the communities impacted by AI in healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a framework for redistributing ethical authority in global health AI to affected communities.
• To explore mechanisms for community participation in AI design, evaluation, and deployment.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of AI ethics frameworks in global health.
• Proposal of participatory models for community engagement in AI governance.
• Alignment with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance on public-interest AI.

Main Results:

• Centering lived experiences can improve AI safety, accountability, and decolonial governance.
• Community involvement can help mitigate algorithmic bias and financial toxicity.
• Empowered communities can ensure AI advances health and human rights, rather than exacerbating inequities.

Conclusions:

• Redistributing ethical authority to affected communities is crucial for equitable AI in global health.
• Participatory councils with decision-making power can strengthen AI governance.
• Practical mechanisms for co-leading AI development and monitoring are essential for realizing AI's potential for health and rights.