Use of artificial intelligence in medical education: tool or threat? Scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) has garnered considerable attention among emerging technologies. AI refers to machines’ ability to learn and make autonomous decisions, resembling human intelligence. In training healthcare professionals, AI shows the potential to enhance teaching and learning.

Objective: To analyze the applications of AI in physician training, including its benefits, limitations, and ethical and social implications.

Method: A search was conducted in electronic databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using MeSH terms and Boolean operators to refine studies. The selected studies were analyzed and synthesized to identify the main applications of AI in medical training and the associated benefits and limitations.

Results: Multiple AI applications in medical education were identified, such as personalized learning, immediate feedback, and easy access to information. Benefits include increased efficiency and learning effectiveness. On the other hand, ethical considerations and precautions include potential bias, data privacy and security, over-reliance on technology, and impacts on the physician-patient relationship.

Conclusion: AI offers significant advantages for physician training, improving the quality of education and timely patient treatment. However, it is important to consider its implications. Proper implementation of AI can leverage its benefits while mitigating its risks. Physicians must be prepared to use AI responsibly, balancing technology with humanistic care.