Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Primary Care and Family Medicine Residency Programs

Abstract

This chapter explores the ethical implications and successful implementations of artificial intelligence (AI) in primary care and family medicine residency programs. It begins by highlighting the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing decision-making processes and enhancing proactive care in healthcare settings. Ethical considerations for healthcare providers encompass various facets, including legal implications, healthcare recipient confidentiality, autonomy, as well as the changing responsibilities of doctors amidst the age of artificial intelligence. The impacts on healthcare professionals and training programs emphasize incorporation of AI training into syllabi and the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Case studies showcase successful AI implementations, such as PainChek® for pain assessment and IDx-DR for diabetic ocular pathologies detection, while also addressing ethical dilemmas and strategies for mitigation. Future perspectives advocate for tailor-made ethical guidelines, education and training programs, and collaborative efforts to ensure responsible AI integration while upholding ethical standards and patient-centric care. Overall, the chapter emphasizes the critical need for ethical frameworks and collaborative approaches to harness AI’s potential in primary care effectively.