Legal and Ethical Frameworks for Artificial Intelligence Applications in Healthcare Systems; Focusing on Global Experiences and Practical Considerations in Comparison with Internal Guidelines: A Narrative Review Study
Code: G-1080
Authors: Abdollah Mehrfar ℗, Zahra Zolfaghari *, Arash Bordbar , Fatemeh Poorakbar-haromi
Schedule: Not Scheduled!
Tag: Health Policy, Law & Management in AI
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Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction: Integrating AI into healthcare systems presents transformative potential ethical and legal challenges. This narrative review explored the diverse regulatory landscapes governing AI in healthcare across various global contexts. Method: This review searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar databases utilizing "Artificial Intelligence," "Machine Learning," "Deep Learning," "Healthcare," "Ethics," "Challenges," and "Regulations" keywords among publications from 2019 to 2024 in both English and Persian, encompassing review articles, research papers, and policy documents. Studies that exhibited low methodological quality or were not directly related to healthcare were excluded. The extracted data were analyzed and organized into six main themes: current trends in AI applications in healthcare, ethical and legal challenges, regional differences in regulatory approaches, the impact on doctor-patient relationships, educational and empowerment needs, and regional approaches. The validation process involved independent assessments by two researchers, with a third researcher addressing any disagreements, and the final findings were confirmed with input from an AI expert to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the literature on AI in healthcare. Result: The results underscored the intricate landscape of legal and ethical frameworks regulating AI applications within healthcare systems. A total of 43 articles were reviewed, offering a thorough overview of global experiences and practical insights. The results revealed that the global regulation of AI in healthcare varies widely, with only a few countries establishing comprehensive legal frameworks. Iran's regulatory environment is marked by evolving policies and fragmentation, with ongoing discussions about ethical concerns in private hospitals but no specific AI regulations from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. Despite the potential for AI integration in Iranian healthcare, significant challenges related to compliance, ethics, and data security persist as patient expectations continue to rise. Conclusion: AI is revolutionizing healthcare by enhancing early disease detection, optimizing treatment plans, and increasing the efficiency and accuracy of medical services. It minimizes human error and accelerates diagnostics, improving access to quality care. However, to maximize AI's benefits, it is crucial to establish a comprehensive framework that addresses ethical concerns and adapts to the fast-paced evolution of technology.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare Systems, Ethical Considerations
