Why do Ethics in Artificial Intelligence (AI) ?

• Now that the Genie is out of the bottle, how do we shape an Ethical AI in Health ?
• Inevitable….we can all say that AI in healthcare and dermatology will continue its march forward.
• At times it seems that the improvements in technology (Moore’s law for data storage for exemple) is evolving faster and outpacing than entities can establish ethical principles or frameworks.
• Indeed, in addition to the significant good that can come of augmented intelligence and AI in dermatology, there are many ways to unethically, yet profitably, capitalize on data which may harm:
  • patients
  • other groups
  • or the social good.
• We can see how payers are already utilizing AI capabilities and assistance to optimize utilization and to maximize their bottom line.
• Whatever we think of AI, it’s a technology…that’sall. We can think of as a tool that can be wielded in shape, but it’s not inherently by itself inclined towards good or bad. Arguably at this time, what exists for us is not only the opportunity, but the obligation to influence:
  • the path
  • the direction
  • and the approach to AI, so that we can shape it and push it towards enhancing dermatologic intelligence, to promote just and beneficial outcomes while avoiding harms to those patients who rely on us.

Justin Ko, MD. Ethical Considerations in AI. 8th World Congress of Teledermatology, Skin Imaging and AI in Skin diseases – November 2020