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Pros & Cons
Sanam T.
What is Artificial Intelligence in Medicine?
Artificial intelligence is a branch of computer science in which data and algorithms are used. In other words, artificial intelligence is described as the intelligence of machines. In the medical field, certain machines are used to perform diagnoses in a clinical setting, and some even suggest treatments (Daniel Greenfield, hms.harvard.edu, 2019). These machines are programmed to do certain things that a human can do through its intellect, hence why it is called artificial intelligence.
How is artificial intelligence being used in the medical field ?
Artificial Intelligence (Al) performs a crucial role in medicine, especially with efficiency in medical settings. It is one of the fastest growing industries in the world with a value of approximately $600 million in 2014. For example, there is a “robot” called chatbot that can listen to a patient's symptoms and comments, leading to a quicker diagnosis. Harvard Medical School is one of the many medical settings in which this is used. Furthermore, Al is used in radiology through a “radiology assistant” that observes and carefully analyzes images or scans to help contribute to a diagnosis. Artificial intelligence also helps with the creation of new medicines and so on (Sam Daley, builtin.com, 2019). This industry continues to contribute to modern medicine in both big and small ways. While the efficiency in these machines is clearly evident, a concern still arises about whether or not artificial intelligence can one day replace doctors.
Can artificial intelligence replace doctors in the future?
While it is predicted that artificial intelligence will continue to grow and somewhat dominate medicine in a way, it is rightfully assumed that these machines cannot replace doctors, At the end of the day, doctors are people too, but robots are not. One reason why doctors are irreplaceable is because they have human empathy, and if a patient is about to receive some unfortunate news, they need an emotional presence of an actual doctor to be there with them. Yes, robots can look like people too, but they cannot feel the intensity of certain emotions the way a person does. Additionally, not all diagnoses are simple to find and many situations require creative thinking and several tests to lead to an official diagnosis. While technology can help contribute to this, it cannot do everything (MedicalFuturist,2018).
The Pros of Artificial intelligence (AI) :
Al is very innovative and continues to have a positive impact in medicine and other fields as well. For example, certain technology helps warn about certain risks early on, and can save time with its efficiency. Certain machines can provide support as well as assist in surgeries. Al also saves money in a way and makes the lives of doctors and other medical professionals easier with its aid (byteant, 2019).
The cons of Artificial Intelligence (AI) :
While AI has its benefits, it also has some serious negative effects related to it. One being the fact that it is taking over jobs and leading to unemployment among potential workers in the healthcare field. To add on, potential biases can be used, and correct diagnoses are not always guaranteed as errors can be made often in technology (byteant, 2019). Privacy is another concern when it comes to artificial intelligence as patients are concerned with the security of their comments and treatments. Despite its efficiency, artificial intelligence still has some negative effects that lead to questions being raised.