The transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in global healthcare is undeniable, with applications ranging from diagnostics to treatment innovations. The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges the unprecedented adoption of large multi-modal models (LMMs), a form of generative AI, and underscores the need for health care providers to approach AI implementation responsibly. In this blog, we delve into the WHO's guidance on the ethics and governance of LMMs, exploring their immense possibilities and the imperative of addressing associated risks, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Large multi-modal models represent a breakthrough in AI, capable of processing various data inputs like text, videos, and images to generate diverse outputs. Notable platforms such as ChatGPT, Bard, and Bert exemplify the rapid evolution of this technology. The WHO contends that LMMs could revolutionize global health outcomes by enhancing diagnostics, treatment strategies, and overall healthcare efficiency.
AI's integration into healthcare promises significant advancements, from accelerating diagnosis and scientific research to drug development, medical training, administration, and even patient self-assessment. By leveraging AI, medical professionals can analyze vast datasets, including images, scans, and electronic health records, leading to more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and the potential prediction of patient outcomes. The technology holds the key to improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency, particularly in regions facing a shortage of medical practitioners.
While the benefits of AI in healthcare are profound, the WHO emphasizes the necessity of responsible use. The guidance provided by the WHO outlines ethical considerations and governance principles for the development, regulation, and utilization of LMMs. The inherent risks associated with generative AI technologies, including issues of transparency, accountability, and bias, must be meticulously addressed.
"Generative AI technologies have the potential to improve health care, but only if those who develop, regulate and use these technologies identify and fully account for the associated risks," asserts WHO Chief Scientist Jeremy Farrar. The call for transparent information and policies underscores the importance of managing the design, development, and deployment of LMMs with vigilance.
Philippe Gerwill, Corporate Advisor for AI 2030, highlights the pivotal role of LMMs in augmenting healthcare accessibility, particularly in regions facing a scarcity of medical practitioners. By enhancing the productivity of healthcare workers, these AI models can mitigate the impact of doctor shortages, ensuring broader and more equitable access to medical care.
As the world steps into a new era of AI-driven advancements in public health and clinical medicine, the WHO's guidance serves as a compass for navigating the evolving landscape responsibly. The potential benefits of LMMs in healthcare are immense, but realizing them requires a concerted effort to address risks, prioritize ethical considerations, and ensure equitable access. Striking a balance between innovation and responsibility is paramount for harnessing the full potential of AI in improving global health outcomes.
Publish Time: 11:55
Publish Date: 2024-01-26
