Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Opinion: STAT+: Sometimes, it would be unethical not to use AI in medicine

In today’s advanced world, we heavily rely on technology to guide us and assist us in our tasks. From navigation systems to GPS, we have become accustomed to using technology as an aid in our daily lives. However, when it comes to the field of medicine, there seems to be a hesitation in fully embracing technology as a support system. This reluctance could be potentially harmful and even life-threatening for patients. Just as we do not let pilots fly without instrument support, why should medicine be any different?

Pilots are trained to fly aircrafts, but they are not left solely to their own abilities. They have a whole array of instruments and technology at their disposal to guide them in their journey. This is not because they are not capable of flying without it, but because it adds an extra layer of safety and precision to their job. The same principle should be applied to the practice of medicine.

Medicine, like aviation, is a complex and high-stakes profession. A small mistake or miscalculation can have severe consequences. It is therefore imperative that healthcare professionals have the necessary tools and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients. Just as pilots rely on their instruments to navigate through adverse weather conditions, doctors should have access to cutting-edge technology to aid them in making accurate diagnoses and providing the best treatment plans.

One of the major benefits of using technology in medicine is the ability to gather and analyze large amounts of data. With the help of electronic health records and advanced imaging techniques, doctors can access a patient’s complete medical history and make well-informed decisions. This reduces the risk of misdiagnosis and ensures that patients receive the most appropriate treatment. Moreover, technology also enables doctors to monitor patients remotely, allowing for timely interventions and preventing potential complications.

Another area where technology has greatly impacted the field of medicine is in surgery. The introduction of surgical robots has revolutionized the way certain procedures are performed. These robots provide surgeons with greater precision and dexterity, resulting in less invasive surgeries and quicker recovery times for patients. This not only benefits the patient but also reduces the strain on healthcare systems by minimizing hospital stays and associated costs.

Furthermore, technology has also played a crucial role in patient education and empowerment. With the proliferation of health apps and wearable devices, patients can actively participate in their own care. They can track their vital signs, monitor their progress, and receive reminders for medications and appointments. This not only promotes self-care but also allows for better communication between patients and healthcare providers.

However, despite the numerous benefits of incorporating technology into medicine, there are still those who are hesitant to fully embrace it. Some may argue that it takes away from the human touch and personal connection between doctors and patients. While this may be true to some extent, it is important to remember that technology is not meant to replace healthcare professionals but to support and enhance their capabilities. It allows them to focus on what they do best – providing compassionate care to their patients.

Moreover, there is the concern of cost and the fear that technology may lead to job losses for healthcare workers. However, in the long run, the use of technology can actually reduce healthcare costs by streamlining processes, reducing errors, and improving efficiency. As for job losses, technology has the potential to create new job opportunities in the field of healthcare technology.

In conclusion, the use of technology in medicine should not be seen as a threat but as a valuable ally. Just as we do not let pilots fly without instrument support, we should not let doctors practice without the aid of technology. It is time to fully embrace the benefits that technology has to offer and use it to improve the quality of healthcare for all. Let us not forget that at the heart of medicine lies the well-being and safety of patients, and technology can only enhance that. So let us embrace it, not as an option but as a necessity.

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