Background: Artificial Intelligence and Ethical Challenges Respecting the Human Dignity of the Patient with an Emphasis on Autonomy
Abstract
Background: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in recent years, particularly with the rise of chatbots in the medical sector as healthcare or therapeutic assistants, has prompted numerous healthcare professionals, service providers, and patients to embrace these innovations. Since the initial concepts surrounding AI and intelligent robots emerged, numerous ethical and legal challenges have arisen, which continue to evolve. Key issues include how AI should be treated, the nature of interactions with it, and the accountability for the outcomes it delivers to users.
Methods: To explore this topic, the scoping review method was employed due to its emerging nature and resource constraints. A thorough search was conducted using the keywords “AI” and “autonomy” in Google Scholar and PubMed, focusing on articles published between 2021 and 2024. The insights gathered from the literature review and the views of various authors culminated in the writing of this article.
Results: The most prominent themes identified across the reviewed literature include the importance of transparency in decision-making, justice and informed consent, as well as privacy concerns. These aspects warrant serious consideration given the increasing utilization of AI to ensure equitable and comprehensive access to healthcare services.
Conclusion: In addition to the issues highlighted by the literature review, the implementation of AI as an assistant therapist or caregiver within the healthcare system necessitates a commitment to upholding patient dignity and respecting their independence and autonomy as users of technology.
Consequently, it is imperative to establish clear frameworks regarding the respect for autonomy, obtaining informed consent, safeguarding privacy, ensuring transparency in data and outcomes, and defining the nature of human-machine interactions. This clarity is essential for assigning ethical and legal responsibilities in the relationship between AI and its users (the patients). This article will delve into these critical topics.