In a recent publication accepted on September 23, 2024 by the Journal of Religion and Health, a Springer journal indexed by Scopus in the first quarter, Inst. Ivan Efreaim A. Gozum, MA of the Institute of Religion co-authored an article with Ms. Chastene Christopher D. Flake, MS of the Angeles University Foundation, which introduced a new ethical framework that integrates Catholic Social Teaching (CST) with the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI) to combat inequalities in health care. The study, titled “Integrating Catholic Social Teaching with AI Ethics to Address Inequities in AI-Related Healthcare,” addresses potential ethical concerns arising from widespread adoption of the technologies of AI in the healthcare sector, particularly in low-resource settings where inequalities in access are prevalent.
The paper focuses on the potential of AI to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiencies, but emphasizes challenges related to disparities in access to healthcare through AI. The authors propose that AI-based health solutions risk exacerbating existing inequalities, primarily benefiting people living in urban and high-income areas, while leaving marginalized communities behind. Their research suggests a framework for equitable AI implementation, drawing on key CSE principles such as human dignity, the common good, and preferential options for the poor. These teachings, rooted in justice, closely align with ethical concerns surrounding AI and healthcare.
Building on the Church’s commitment to social justice, Gozum and Flake advocate for systemic changes to ensure that AI technology in healthcare benefits all communities, especially to those who are underserved. Their proposal comes at the right time as AI revolutionizes medical fields, from early diagnosis to personalization of treatment. The authors emphasize that AI should complement healthcare professionals rather than replace them, and call for inclusive healthcare systems that prioritize equitable distribution of AI resources. They also draw attention to the ethical implications of bias in AI algorithms, which could disproportionately affect marginalized groups.
This study represents a new intersection between religion, ethics, and technology, prompting policymakers and healthcare professionals to consider the social impacts of AI and its role in global health equity.
For more details, readers can access the full article via this link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10943-024-02140-2
