Artificial intelligence can have a wide range of applications in healthcare. UN calls for legal safeguards when using AI in healthcare Healthcare
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is rapidly expanding, but basic legal mechanisms that should protect patients and healthcare workers are still missing.
This is indicated by a new report of the European Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO). In European countries, AI technologies are already helping doctors identify diseases, reduce administrative burden and communicate with patients.
AI is changing the way healthcare is delivered, data interpreted, and resources allocated. “But without clear policies, data protection, legal frameworks, and investment in AI literacy, we risk deepening inequalities rather than reducing them,” said WHO/European Regional Director Hans Kluge.
Transforming Systems healthcare
The report was the first comprehensive assessment of how AI technologies are being implemented and regulated in the health systems of countries in the region. The survey included representatives 50 from the 53 countries in Europe and Central Asia that are part of WHO/Europe.
Although almost all countries recognize the potential AI from diagnostics to surveillance and personalization of medical care, only four states have a separate national strategy, another seven are at the stage of its development.
Some countries are taking active steps. Thus, in Estonia, electronic medical records, insurance data and demographic registries are combined into a single platform, which allows the use of AI tools. help.
Problems and limitations
Meanwhile, regulatory measures in most countries have not kept pace with technological progress. Uncertainty in the legal sphere is called the main barrier to the use of AI by 43 countries in the region, that is, 86 percent. Another 39 states – 78 percent – indicate financial constraints.
Fewer than 10 percent of countries have liability standards for AI in healthcare—a critical element that determines who is held accountable if an error or harm occurs. “Despite these challenges, there is broad consensus on policies that could support adoption AI,” says the report.
Nearly all states believe that clear liability rules for manufacturers, operators and users of AI systems are key. Likewise, to build trust, countries recognize the need for guidelines that ensure AI decisions are transparent, verifiable and explainable. health care.
Experts recommend that countries invest in training staff, strengthening legal and ethical frameworks, involving local communities in decision-making and improving cross-border data management.
“AI can make revolution in healthcare, but its potential will only be realized if decision-makers are guided by the interests of people and especially patients,” said Hans Kluge.
“The choices we make today will determine whether AI will help patients and healthcare employees – or leave them behind,” he added.