However, patients should exercise caution and refrain from placing unwavering trust in online sources. We delve into this issue with Joanna Kr\u00f3liczek, President of the Globiana Medical Center in Katowice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rafa\u0142 Cieniek: What do you believe are the top sources of medical knowledge?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Joanna Kr\u00f3liczek: For patients, it\u2019s undoubtedly the internet. It provides information on disease symptoms, prevention, and medications. Artificial intelligence has long been incorporated into medicine. For example, \u2018symptom checkers\u2019 apps can diagnose based on symptoms and check interactions between medications. Yet, over relying on AI can be risky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, should we be cautious about trusting online information?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n While algorithms can give an initial diagnosis, it\u2019s crucial to remember that medical knowledge was once closely guarded, shared only from master to student. I believe that, even though AI has its strengths, it will never replace human trust. Trust is fundamental in healthcare. Patients must feel confident and at ease when discussing their concerns with a doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Does this mean AI won\u2019t be involved in our treatment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n AI will certainly improve access to medical care, making diagnostics faster and more precise. However, I firmly believe that no algorithm can replace the personal bond between a doctor and their patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What benefits can AI bring to medicine?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Artificial intelligence holds vast potential. Software rapidly identifies patterns in test results. There are tools that offer straightforward advice. Algorithms assist medical professionals in decision-making. With them, they can save time, focusing on helping those in the most need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many believe that the rise of medical chatbots poses a threat to patients.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Automation in healthcare can bring many benefits. However, there are concerns regarding data protection and potential diagnostic errors. For this reason, such systems must be closely supervised by physicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What would you advise individuals who choose to treat themselves based solely on information found online?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If someone opts to use medical apps and other online tools, they should always verify their credibility and the sources of information. AI cannot replace a visit to a trusted doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Is AI the most significant challenge in modern medicine?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We are faced with numerous challenges. Primarily, there\u2019s a shortage of staff. Due to an aging society, lifestyle-related challenges, and inadequate prevention, illnesses are on the rise. Meanwhile, the average age of cardiologists in [Poland] is 53. Such seasoned individuals did not grow up in the smartphone era. New technologies might pose challenges to them. Although they possess vast medical knowledge, they find it challenging to share it in a contemporary manner and need support in this area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Should we not trust all medical professionals?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Around the world, new therapies are constantly being developed, and the internet facilitates health information exchange. We\u2019re inundated with ads for supposedly groundbreaking drugs and vaccines. It\u2019s essential not to place blind trust in pharmaceutical companies and opinions surfacing online. It\u2019s better to trust a doctor who will take a holistic view of the issue and reassure us when we have concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n