AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine

AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine

AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine

AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine

The world is witnessing a revolution in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical field, where smart algorithms and advanced robots have become an integral part of diagnosis, treatment, and surgery. This technology is promoted as a means to reduce human errors and improve diagnostic accuracy, but is AI in medicine always safe? And what happens when the robot makes a mistake?

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

AI is used in many medical fields, from analyzing radiological images to predicting chronic diseases and even performing surgeries with advanced robotic systems. Thanks to deep learning, algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data at speeds far beyond human capabilities, aiding in the early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and heart conditions.
In operating rooms, robots like “Da Vinci” have become a primary tool for surgeons, providing extreme precision and reducing surgical risks. AI applications also guide doctors through critical medical procedures, enhancing accuracy and efficiency.

When AI Makes Mistakes

Despite its many advantages, AI is not infallible, and some errors can be fatal. The most prominent challenges facing AI in medicine include:

• Diagnostic Errors – AI algorithms may rely on incomplete or biased data, leading to incorrect diagnoses or delayed disease detection. In some cases, AI systems have failed to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors, resulting in unnecessary medical procedures or delays in treatment.
• Robotic Surgery Issues – Although robotic surgery offers high precision, incidents have been recorded due to software errors or misuse by doctors, leading to severe patient injuries.
• Lack of Flexibility and Critical Thinking – AI lacks the ability to make creative or exceptional decisions in rare or emergency cases that do not align with its programmed data. Sometimes, a doctor can detect a problem based on intuition and experience—something AI cannot do.
• Over-Reliance on Technology – Excessive dependence on AI may gradually reduce doctors’ skills, which could pose a risk when quick human intervention is required.

How Can AI Be Made Safer?

To minimize risks, AI should be complemented by human oversight through:

• Enhancing the quality of data used in training AI algorithms to reduce bias.
• Implementing strict monitoring systems to ensure AI decisions are reviewed by medical professionals.
• Developing AI systems with greater transparency, allowing doctors to understand how the system reaches specific conclusions.
• Providing extensive training for doctors to use AI as an aid rather than a complete replacement.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that AI represents a promising future in medicine, but the errors it may cause raise concerns about its safety. The key lies in striking a balance between technology and human expertise so that AI serves as an assistant to doctors rather than a substitute. Patients’ lives should not be left entirely in the hands of algorithms that, like humans, can make mistakes—but without awareness or understanding of those mistakes.
AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine

Attorney / Mohamed Al Marzooqi
Mohamed Al Marzooqi advocates & Consultancy
Lawyer in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ajman UAE

“AI Medical Errors – When Robots Make Mistakes in Medicine”