Reframing artificial intelligence for global health equity and ethics
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) drives rapid changes in health systems and services worldwide. However,
the speed of change in health technology and research is not always followed by the same speed of
change in educational, legal, societal, and ethical aspects. AI has a huge potential to decrease global
health inequities. Yet, it also carries risks that might widen disparities. This report presents some of
the literature findings and discussion regarding AI, health equity, and ethics. Related to this, core
determinants of health equity in the AI era were discussed in light of medical ethics, and public
health principles and recommendations were developed with a special focus on increased community
participation, educational reforms, and alignment with global sustainability efforts. The main discussion
points and recommendations were summarized in a figure and a table, created by the co-authors. Current
literature suggests that implementing secure data storage, transparent quality assurance mechanisms, and
continuous monitoring and evaluation of newly introduced AI tools, including their effects on public and
environmental health outcomes, health equity, and ethics are needed for future policies and practices.
Health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and businesses need up-to-date guidelines, regulations,
and tools to enable the development and use of AI solutions to promote health equity, including principles
of medical and public health ethics. Community engagement in designing, implementing, and evaluating
AI solutions is crucial, especially to ensure that populations with vulnerabilities are not left behind.
Keywords
Artificial intelligence, Global health, Health equity, Ethics, Community participation
Ethical Statement
Ethics approval was not
needed in preparation of this work.
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