Members of the public are being asked for their views on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.
The Irish Platform for Patients' Organisations, Science & Industry (IPPOSI) is forming a "Citizens' Jury" tasked with developing a series of recommendations to Government by the end of this year.
The jury of 25 people, broadly representative of the population, will be assembled following an independent selection process.
They will focus on the social, ethical, legal and practical considerations of increasing the use of AI in healthcare.
From reading scans and bloodwork to personalising treatments, from monitoring outcomes to managing waiting lists, AI has the potential to fundamentally change healthcare.
However, it also raises questions around accountability and responsibility for decisions made by AI, as well as the quality of care and how patient safety is protected.
Over a ten-week period, the jury will hear from expert 'witnesses’ on the benefits and challenges posed by the use of AI in healthcare in Ireland, with an opportunity to cross-examine and tease out the issues, before delivering its verdict which is intended to inform future health policy on the topic.
Anyone over the age of 18 living in Ireland can apply and the jury will start discussions online in September before convening in person at the end of November to finalise deliberations.
"Many of IPPOSI’s members living with chronic and rare diseases believe that if we get it right, AI offers the potential for massive benefits for healthcare service users, including enabling earlier detection and diagnosis of disease, the ability to analyse vast amounts of patient data, and the reduction of backlogs in service delivery," said Derick Mitchell, CEO of IPPOSI.
"However, there are also potential dangers arising from algorithm bias and the lack of transparency on how AI technology is actually working."
"It is vital that we explore the pros and cons, the potential trade-offs, and the rules that will need to be in place to ensure the appropriate use of AI in a way that earns people’s trust," Mr Mitchell said.
The closing date for applications to become a member of the Citizens' Jury is 21 June and those interested in taking part can apply at www.ipposi.ie/aicitizensjury.
The initiative is supported by Science Foundation Ireland as well as through unrestricted grants from IPPOSI industry members.
The Irish Platform for Patient Organisations, Science, and Industry (IPPOSI) is a patient-led, non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting partnerships between patients, academia, and industry.
