Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is one of the most mind blowing and astounding fascinations the human race has seen. The simple fact that a computer, phone, or car has acquired similar, equal, or greater mental capacity to a human has shown to be a great, yet a haunting phenomenon that society has accepted very willingly. The field of medicine itself back in the day lacked the effective equipment needed to treat an ill patient, but still managed to do so despite the aid of artificial intelligence. However, technology has definitely propelled itself in healthcare in great magnitudes proving its need in the system. While some may argue that the introduction of technology has been a great asset in the field of healthcare, others may say that it has created a disturbance that could be avoided.

When one is to go to a franchised grocery or convenience store, there is a self check out station and the customer is being assisted by a machine. It counts out the quarters, nickels, and dimes leaving them all set to go with no human interaction from the time they walked in to the time they leave. This aspect, which I like to call the "vending machine effect" is already implemented in healthcare with medication disposal in healthcare systems. I would have to agree this is very convenient for the hospital staff for quick disposal, but this does not necessarily mean all errors are avoided. There are now some pharmacies which now utilize this vending machine effect for prescription medications. They are placed in areas, where access to medications are limited and operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Again, very convenient, but what happens if that patient has questions? What happens if that machine breaks down and he or she cannot get their antibiotics? Artificial intelligence seems to be very helpful, but is it reliable?

My thoughts are we cannot depend solely on artificial intelligence as we need the human mind too. Ideally, we cannot put all our trust on a machine and allow it to be the decision maker. We must be able to dictate how much it is involved in the healthcare system and utilize in ways that does not tip the balance of our role as health care professionals in the healthcare system.  

https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/bill-would-allow-vending-machines-prescription-drugs