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The Limitations and Ethical Considerations of Generative AI

Leigha Jansen, EdD, CPACC, Carolyn Smaka, AuD

April 15, 2024

Question

What are the limitations and ethical considerations of using Generative AI in healthcare?

Answer

Generative AI, despite its transformative potential in healthcare, is not without limitations and ethical concerns. One significant challenge is the occurrence of “hallucinations,” where AI generates convincing yet inaccurate content. This necessitates rigorous fact-checking by healthcare professionals to prevent misinformation. Moreover, AI’s inability to understand abstract concepts, reason about ethics, or perform original research underlines the indispensable role of human oversight in interpreting and applying AI-generated insights. Ethical considerations also extend to privacy, data transparency, and potential biases within AI algorithms, which may reflect or exacerbate existing societal inequalities. Recognizing these limitations emphasizes the importance of a cautious and informed approach to integrating AI into healthcare practices.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Introduction to GenAI and Chatbots for Healthcare Professionals, presented by Leigha Jansen EdD, CPACC, and Carolyn Smaka AuD.


leigha jansen

Leigha Jansen, EdD, CPACC

Leigha Jansen, EdD, CPACC, is the director of educational technology at Continued. With degrees from the University of Minnesota and Nova Southeastern, Dr. Jansen brings brains, heart, and over 20 years of experience to the table. Her passion is leveraging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to deliver top-notch continuing education for adult learners nationwide.

A self-proclaimed lifelong learner, Dr. Jansen holds the CPACC credential and keeps digital accessibility at the forefront. She serves on the IACET Board of Directors and as an adjunct faculty member at Concordia University because she believes in the combined power of learning and technology to change lives for the better. At Continued and beyond, Dr. Jansen is an educational ambassador who brings knowledge, compassion, and vision to every project. Her friendly Midwestern warmth makes everyone feel genuinely welcome.


carolyn smaka

Carolyn Smaka, AuD

Carolyn Smaka, AuD, is the Editor-in-Chief at Continued. Leading a dynamic team of editors, she directs the development of world-class continuing education course libraries that span multiple disciplines. Prior to Continued, Carolyn provided audiology care in diverse clinical settings and served in leadership roles in the hearing industry. Her dedication to audiology is reflected in extensive volunteer work with professional associations, and she is a past recipient of the Joel Wernick Award from the Academy of Doctors of Audiology.

Carolyn is passionate about the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and is excited by its countless applications in the education and healthcare sectors. As an AI ambassador, she continuously upskills through professional development, research, and early adoption of AI tools for work and play. She leads her team’s efforts in incorporating AI into their workflows to streamline processes and bolster staff engagement. 


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