Artificial intelligence in healthcare and its implications for patient centered care
Emmanuel Kumah
Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has transformed medical practice by improving diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and operational efficiency. However, as AI becomes more prevalent, its impact on patient-centered care—the core of healthcare—requires careful consideration. This paper explores the opportunities and challenges AI presents in maintaining patient-centered care principles such as collaboration, personalization, and respect for patient preferences. While AI can enhance healthcare delivery by freeing up time for more empathetic patient interactions and enabling personalized treatments, concerns about dehumanization, data transparency, and trust remain. A balanced approach, where AI supports but does not replace human expertise, is essential to ensure that AI complements patient-centered care rather than undermine it. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between healthcare providers, AI developers, and policymakers to safeguard the core values of patient-centered care.