Key Takeaways
- Healthcare leaders are debating whether to disclose AI use in patient interactions to build trust.
- Experts advocate for full transparency in AI applications, as patient trust remains low.
- AI-generated messages are drafts, edited by clinicians before sending, underscoring the importance of human oversight.
As healthcare providers increasingly incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into patient interactions, the question arises: should they disclose AI usage to patients? Currently, no laws mandate transparency regarding AI, yet many healthcare leaders grapple with its implications for patient trust.
Research shows that trust in AI is inadequate. A recent poll reported that 43% of patients don’t understand how AI is utilized in their care, while additional studies reveal apprehension over AI’s role in diagnostics and administration. Bill Fera, M.D., from Deloitte, emphasizes the need for complete transparency, stating that disclosing AI involvement can eliminate ambiguity and foster trust. He advocates for a straightforward approach where healthcare professionals declare their use of AI at the outset of interactions.
However, questions linger about how much AI actually authors messages in patient portals. For instance, Tom Gillette, chief information officer at Mount Sinai Medical Center, clarifies that AI-generated messages are merely drafts, subject to clinician review. He stresses that while AI assists in drafting, the clinician ultimately conveys the message, preserving their voice and expertise.
This highlights a critical aspect of AI’s role in healthcare: the necessity for provider oversight. Fera notes that many clinicians end up rewriting AI-generated content substantially, signaling a belief in the importance of transparency regarding technology’s role in patient care.
AI and Ambient Documentation
The discussion extends to ambient AI tools, which unobtrusively document patient encounters. Chrissy Daniels, chief experience officer at Press Ganey, insists on the importance of informing patients about these systems. While ambient technologies may seem seamless, providers should communicate their function and value to ensure patients understand their benefits.
Daniels advocates for proactive trust-building through communication, suggesting that patients be notified when ambient documentation tools are in use. Transparency in this context not only assists in managing patient expectations but also enhances rapport between patients and providers.
Establishing trust amidst healthcare advancements requires a commitment to clarity and openness regarding AI. The overall sentiment among experts is that transparency in AI utilization can strengthen the patient-provider relationship, ultimately fostering a culture of trust in healthcare.
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