American discomfort with A.I.’s use for healthcare is not overlooked; however, a new survey showed that the potential for reducing medical mistakes and eliminating racial bias is generally accepted. Overall, those surveyed expressed “significant discomfort” regarding their doctors’ use of Artificial Intelligence.
The application of computer programs that rely on human intelligence to solve and perform more complicated tasks is what is known as artificial intelligence. These machines can learn as humans do, taking in data that is fed positively into them. This area of study and growth continues to be developed with constantly improving technologies.
If you regularly shop on Amazon, you wouldn’t be surprised to know that its technology relies on artificial intelligence to make recommendations related to what you’ve been buying. After all, if you’ve been purchasing cat food, the site will most likely suggest cat toys.
A.I. can effectively perform many activities that might otherwise prove difficult for humans. Using A.I., it is possible to unlock iPhones, drive Teslas, answer customer service questions from a bank, and suggest recommendations on Netflix.
For many U.S. citizens, delving into the realm of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) involving their healthcare may be embarrassing; However, they enjoy customized amenities; the futuristic conception is a bridge too far.
Sixty percent of those asked by the Pew Research Center in a recent survey reported feeling unease when considering the possibility of an A.I. healthcare provider making decisions such as prognosis and treatment recommendations.
A clear majority of respondents (57%) indicated that incorporating artificial intelligence into their connection with their service provider would prove detrimental, negatively impacting their relationship.
Only 38% believed that A.I. could result in better health outcomes when used to diagnose a disease or natural treatment, yet 33% said worse health outcomes would be the outcome, and 27% felt it wouldn’t have much effect.
Regarding AI-driven robots performing part of surgeries, almost six out of every ten Americans said they wouldn’t want that. Additionally, an overwhelming majority (79%) preferred not to let a chatbot assist them with their mental health care.
Security is, of course, a key issue when considering A.I. for handling health care records. Therefore it is only natural to feel apprehension about such systems in potential use.
Alec Tyson, Pew’s associate director of research, specializes in public opinion and race/ethnicity-related issues.
Alec Tyson says:
“Awareness of AI is still developing. So one dynamic here is, the public isn’t deeply familiar with all of these technologies. And so when you consider their use in a context that’s very personal, something that’s kind of high-stakes as your own health, I think that the notion that folks are still getting to know this technology is certainly one dynamic at play.”
The findings released on Wednesday emerged, pushing the spotlight on a survey of 11,004 American adults between December 12-18. This survey was conducted through randomly sampled residential addresses nationwide using the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP) online.
Pew surveys take into account U.S. demographics such as race, gender, ethnicity, education, and political party affiliation to weigh the results to reflect the nation’s population accurately.
Though the public may be most uncomfortable with artificial intelligence in health care, medical experts believe that A.I. will positively impact patient care. With proper training and education on A.I., the general population may become more accepting of its use in health care. In addition, as technology improves and becomes more commonplace, people may begin to trust A.I. more to provide accurate and trustworthy information.
Source: edition.CNN
