Legal and ethical principles governing the use of artificial intelligence in radiology services in South Africa

Artificial intelligence (AI) will drastically change the healthcare system. Radiology is one speciality that is most affected as AI algorithms are increasingly used in diagnostic imaging. AI-enhanced health technologies will, inter alia, increase workflow efficiency, improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce healthcare-related costs, and help alleviate medical personnel shortages in under-resourced settings. However, the development of AI-enhanced technologies in healthcare is fraught with legal, ethical, and human rights concerns. Currently, the use of AI in South African healthcare is not governed by sui generis legislation or ethical guidance focused exclusively and specifically on AI, although various provisions and principles from law and ethics find application. This article outlines these normative principles and explains their relationship with the extant legal obligations and regulatory framework as applied to the use of AI in radiology services in South Africa. The article concludes with three key recommendations for radiology practitioners using AI in South Africa. These are the need for: vigilant monitoring of AI use in practice, reforms to the liability framework, and appropriate guidance from local regulators and the Health Professions Council of South Africa on the ethical use of AI.

Automated summary

Artificial intelligence (AI) will have a significant impact on the healthcare system, especially in radiology. AI-enhanced technologies in healthcare can improve workflow efficiency, diagnostic accuracy, and mitigate medical personnel shortages. However, there are legal, ethical, and human rights concerns associated with the development of AI in healthcare. This article outlines the normative principles and recommends vigilant monitoring, reforms to the liability framework, and appropriate guidance for the ethical use of AI in radiology services in South Africa.