Comprehensive Summary
This study, by Chen et al., explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied into dermatology and the ethical concerns regarding it. Prior research is analyzed to determine AI’s impact on dermatology. AI systems can assist in detection and diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, remote consulting, and administrative tasks, but should not be the final decision in the clinic. Smartphone apps along with black box models could be misleading and not provide complete information to patients which compromises their informed consent and autonomy regarding their care. There is debate on who the owner is of patient data and security of their private health information. The authors conclude that AI should remain a tool with regulations and security, emphasizing the importance of clinician supervision.
Outcomes and Implications
AI has the potential to widen access to dermatology care and speed up diagnosis. Understanding the ethical risks is necessary to provide the best care and prevent harm. The authors encourage clinicians to be the ones making final decisions, as they remain liable. For the future, more data, stronger privacy measures, and regulations are needed before AI can become more than a supportive tool in dermatology.