Artificial intelligence and urology: ethical considerations for urologists and patients

In this Perspective, the authors highlight the ethical challenges of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in urology and its influence on daily practice. Ethical principles for the application of AI in health care and urology are proposed to improve and oversee the use of such technologies. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine and in urology specifically has increased over the past few years, during which time it has enabled optimization of patient workflow, increased diagnostic accuracy and enhanced computer analysis of radiological and pathological images. However, before further use of AI is undertaken, possible ethical issues need to be evaluated to improve understanding of this technology and to protect patients and providers. Possible ethical issues that require consideration when applying AI in clinical practice include patient safety, cybersecurity, transparency and interpretability of the data, inclusivity and equity, fostering responsibility and accountability, and the preservation of providers' decision-making and autonomy. Ethical principles for the application of AI to health care and in urology are proposed to guide urologists, patients and regulators to improve use of AI technologies and guide policy-making.

Automated summary

This Perspective highlights the ethical challenges and proposed principles for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in urology. AI has greatly benefited medical practice by improving patient workflow and diagnostic accuracy, but ethical issues such as patient safety, cybersecurity, and transparency need to be addressed. The authors recommend ethical principles to guide healthcare professionals, patients, and regulators in the responsible use of AI.