Does AI pose health risks for Louisiana patients?

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2025 | Medical Malpractice

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how doctors and medical providers care for patients in Louisiana. AI tools help analyze medical images, suggest treatment plans and predict patient outcomes. So far, the only FDA-approved use of AI is screening for diabetic retinopathy.

While AI shows promise for improving care, it raises new concerns about medical errors and malpractice. As the technology evolves, questions emerge about who is responsible when AI makes mistakes that harm patients.

Pros and cons of AI in patient care

The American Medical Association refers to medical AI as “augmented intelligence” emphasizing that it should enhance, not replace, a doctor’s judgment. AI aims to support and improve clinical decision-making rather than automate it entirely. While the tech is new, some pros and cons have emerged:

Potential advantages of AI in healthcare:

  • Faster and more accurate diagnoses
  • Improved treatment recommendations
  • Earlier detection of diseases
  • Reduced medical errors
  • More personalized patient care

Potential disadvantages:

  • AI errors leading to misdiagnosis or improper treatment
  • Over-reliance on AI recommendations by doctors
  • Lack of transparency in AI decision-making processes
  • Patient privacy and data security breaches
  • Difficulty determining liability when AI makes mistakes

This is a rapidly changing field. Medical professionals must exercise extreme caution when using AI technology in patient care. The risks and benefits are still not fully understood, so doctors should view AI as a tool to reinforce their expertise rather than replace their clinical judgment.

Who is responsible when AI errors harm patients?

Ultimately, medical professionals remain responsible for patient care. Doctors have a duty to critically evaluate AI recommendations and ensure they align with established standards of care. If a physician blindly follows flawed AI advice that harms a patient, they may still be liable for malpractice.

Determining liability can be complex when patients suffer harm due to medical errors involving AI. The doctor, hospital, AI software company and others may share responsibility. Patients injured by AI-related mistakes should seek experienced legal guidance to understand their rights and options. A skilled medical malpractice attorney can investigate what went wrong and who should be held accountable.

As AI becomes more prevalent in healthcare, laws and regulations will likely evolve. For now, patients should be aware that AI is an emerging technology in medicine with both promising benefits and potential risks. Open communication between doctors and patients about the use of AI tools is essential.