AI in Healthcare: Ethical and Human Rights Implications Explored in Armenia
The Council of Europe and Armenia's National Assembly held a two-day discussion to address the ethical and human rights implications of AI in healthcare, focusing on patient autonomy, professional standards, data self-determination, and equitable access t
AiHealthcareEthicsHuman RightsArmeniaReal EstateFeb 25, 2025
However, these advancements also bring ethical and human rights implications that must be carefully considered.
To address these issues, the Council of Europe, in close cooperation with the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, organized a two-day discussion on 24-25 February 2025.
The event aimed to identify areas where the Armenian legal framework needs to be amended, examine potential human rights challenges arising from the use of AI, and present the European standards outlined in the new report on the Application of AI in healthcare and its impact on the 'patient-doctor' relationship.
This report was issued by the Council of Europe’s Steering Committee for Human Rights in the fields of Biomedicine and Health (CDBIO).
The discussion was opened by Laurence Lwoff, Head of Human Rights and Biomedicine Division of the Council of Europe, who presented the work of the Council in the field.
Arsen Torosyan, Chair of the Standing Committee on Health Affairs, and Rustam Bakoyan, Acting Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Rights and Public Affairs, highlighted the significance of the discussion, given the growing interest and importance of AI, including in healthcare.
The topics covered during the discussion included patient autonomy, professional standards for healthcare professionals, self-determination regarding health data, and equitable access to healthcare.
These areas are crucial for ensuring that the benefits of AI in healthcare are realized while protecting the rights and well-being of patients.
The event strengthened the knowledge and skills of members of the Standing Committees of the National Assembly on national and European human rights standards related to the application of AI in healthcare.
It also fostered policy dialogue on this topic, which is essential for developing a robust legal and ethical framework for AI in healthcare.
The discussion highlighted the importance of balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations and human rights.
For instance, ensuring patient autonomy means that patients have the right to make informed decisions about their healthcare, including whether to use AI-driven tools.
Professional standards for healthcare professionals must also be updated to reflect the changes brought by AI, ensuring that they are trained to use these tools ethically and effectively.
Self-determination regarding health data is another critical area.
Patients should have control over their own health data, including the right to access, correct, and delete their data.
Equitable access to healthcare is also a significant concern, as AI has the potential to widen the gap between those who have access to advanced healthcare and those who do not.
The event was organized as part of the Council of Europe’s Project “Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine III,” which is implemented within the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026.
This project aims to strengthen the legal and ethical framework for biomedicine in Armenia, ensuring that AI and other technological advancements are used in a way that respects and protects human rights.
The discussions and insights gained from this event will be invaluable in shaping the future of healthcare in Armenia and beyond.
By addressing the ethical and human rights implications of AI, the Council of Europe and Armenia’s National Assembly are taking important steps to ensure that healthcare technology is used for the benefit of all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the discussion between the Council of Europe and Armenia's National Assembly?
The main focus of the discussion was to address the ethical and human rights implications of AI in healthcare, including patient autonomy, professional standards, data self-determination, and equitable access to healthcare.
Who opened the two-day discussion and what did they present?
Laurence Lwoff, Head of Human Rights and Biomedicine Division of the Council of Europe, opened the discussion and presented the work of the Council in the field of AI and healthcare.
What are some of the key topics covered during the discussion?
The key topics covered during the discussion included patient autonomy, professional standards for healthcare professionals, self-determination regarding health data, and equitable access to healthcare.
What is the purpose of the Council of Europe's Project 'Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine III'?
The purpose of the Council of Europe's Project 'Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine III' is to strengthen the legal and ethical framework for biomedicine in Armenia, ensuring that technological advancements like AI are used in a way that respects and protects human rights.
What are the potential human rights challenges arising from the use of AI in healthcare?
Potential human rights challenges arising from the use of AI in healthcare include issues related to patient autonomy, data privacy, equitable access to healthcare, and the need for updated professional standards for healthcare professionals.
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