What is it about?

Our study explores the ethical considerations surrounding the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in pharmacy practice, focusing on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. AI offers innovative solutions like clinical decision support and personalized medication regimens, enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. However, integrating AI raises significant concerns such as patient autonomy, data privacy, and the potential for AI systems to influence pharmacy operations and patient-provider relationships. We discuss these issues and emphasize the importance of ethical frameworks, education, and regulatory guidelines to ensure responsible AI implementation in pharmacies.

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Why is it important?

This research sheds light on critical ethical challenges posed by AI in pharmacy practice, aiming to guide policymakers, healthcare providers, and AI developers in navigating these complexities. By addressing concerns related to patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice, our findings advocate for ethical guidelines that prioritize patient welfare and uphold trust in AI-driven healthcare solutions.

Perspectives

Writing this article was an immensely gratifying experience for me, especially as it marks my debut in scholarly publishing. As a clinical pharmacist with a background in biomedical ethics, delving into the ethical dimensions of AI integration in pharmacy practice resonated deeply with my professional interests and personal passion for ensuring patient-centered care. This study not only allowed me to contribute to the discourse on AI ethics but also reinforced the importance of ethical considerations in shaping the future of healthcare. I hope this research encourages further dialogue and action towards fostering ethical AI implementations that prioritize patient welfare and uphold trust in healthcare practices.

Dr. Hisham E. Hasan
Jordan University of Science and Technology

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Ethical considerations and concerns in the implementation of AI in pharmacy practice: a cross-sectional study, BMC Medical Ethics, May 2024, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1186/s12910-024-01062-8.
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