Responsible AI in Public Health, policy and regulation
Imagine a situation where a biased AI system becomes the primary diagnostic tool in a country's public health system. Over time, certain groups (e.g., based on race, gender, or socioeconomic status) consistently receive incorrect or suboptimal treatment recommendations due to this bias. This not only exacerbates health disparities but also erodes public trust in the healthcare system. Simultaneously, malicious actors exploit this trust gap to spread misinformation, causing widespread panic or mistrust in genuine public health advisories. The combination of these events could lead to significant public health crises and social unrest (This Scenario was created by ChatGPT 4)
AI's potential in public health is vast, from improving community well-being to optimizing resource allocation. Yet, it's crucial to act carefully and in advance. A responsible use of AI must address concerns around data privacy, individual rights, safety, and equitable healthcare access.
We're in the early stages of establishing the "Responsible AI in Public Health, Policy, and Regulation" research group. Our vision is to create robust frameworks that guide AI's implementation in public health, drawing from diverse voices—from the public to healthcare professionals. As we learn from other research areas within our Initiative, we also aim to analyze specific AI applications and recommend necessary modifications.
If you're a researcher passionate about the intersection of AI, public health, and ethics, we invite you to be a foundational part of this pioneering group.
