Islamic Organization Conference Advocates Ethical Use of AI in Healthcare
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 3: The Islamic Organization for Medical Sciences recently concluded its 16th Conference with a focus on promoting the ethical and responsible implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of healthcare. Under the theme Artificial Intelligence: Boosting Health and Achieving the Goals of Islamic Shariaa, the conference shed light on the significant role AI plays in public health, preventive medicine, and its impact on health policies.
Dr. Mohammad Al-Jarallah, the chairperson of the organization, highlighted the conference’s key recommendations and emphasized the importance of collaboration among professionals from the medical, Sharia, high-tech industries, and patients’ representatives. The proposed committees would be responsible for establishing criteria to ensure the ethical and effective use of AI in the medical field.
Among the conference’s recommendations, the first suggestion was that critical therapeutic decisions should continue to be made by humans, rather than relying solely on AI. Additionally, AI programs should adhere to Sharia, medical, and social norms, and should strictly be prohibited from gene manipulation. The conference also emphasized the significance of forming agreements with both local and international institutions to support the digital transformation in healthcare. Furthermore, it recommended the creation of official authorities dedicated to handling matters related to IT, data, statistics, and digital transformation on behalf of the State.
The conference further called for extensive research, studies, and examination of best practices and methods in digital transformation, as well as staying updated on the latest innovations and conventions within the AI field. The primary goal emphasized by the recommendations was to prioritize serving humanity’s interests, respecting religious beliefs, upholding human dignity, and adhering to Islamic and humanitarian values. Furthermore, the recommendations emphasized the importance of achieving justice, avoiding harm, and maintaining human control over machines.
Dr. Al-Jarallah acknowledged that the emergence of AI represents a new phase, particularly in the realm of digital health. He emphasized that human technologies, including AI, cannot be equated to the divine creation of Almighty God. The conference, which received Amiri sponsorship, delved into the central role of public health, preventive medicine, the enhancement of health policies, rational governance, and the ethical implications of AI in alignment with Sharia objectives.
The conference’s recommendations serve as a significant milestone in ensuring the responsible and ethical use of AI in the healthcare sector. With the rapid advancements in technology, it is crucial to establish guidelines and regulations that prioritize human well-being and uphold the values of Islamic Shariaa. By forming specialized committees and collaborating with various stakeholders, the Islamic Organization for Medical Sciences is paving the way for the integration of AI in healthcare while respecting cultural, ethical, and religious considerations.
The implementation of AI in healthcare holds immense potential for improving patient care, disease prevention, and optimizing health policies. However, it is essential to navigate this transition carefully, ensuring that the core principles of ethics, justice, and human dignity are preserved. The recommendations put forth by the Islamic Organization for Medical Sciences emphasize these important considerations, highlighting the need for comprehensive research, collaborations, and adherence to Islamic and humanitarian values.
As the world continues to witness remarkable advancements in AI technology, it is encouraging to see organizations like the Islamic Organization for Medical Sciences taking a proactive approach to ensure that these innovations are harnessed in a responsible and beneficial manner. By combining the expertise of medical professionals, scholars of Sharia, and experts in high-tech industries, the conference has set a solid foundation for the ethical use of AI in healthcare. Through careful implementation and continuous research, AI has the potential to revolutionize the field of medicine while upholding the values and principles that are integral to Islamic ethics.
