Ethical Deployment of AI in Public Health Initiatives: Balancing Benefits and Risks

Abstract

The deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public health initiatives offers transformative potential for improving health outcomes on a global scale. However, this promising technology also introduces a myriad of ethical challenges that must be carefully navigated to ensure that the benefits are maximized while minimizing risks. This paper critically examines the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in public health, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that respects individual rights, promotes equity, and maintains public trust. Key areas of focus include data privacy and security, algorithmic bias and fairness, transparency and accountability, and the implications for health disparities. By proposing a framework for the ethical deployment of AI in public health initiatives, this paper aims to guide policymakers, healthcare providers, and technologists in responsibly harnessing the power of AI to advance public health objectives while safeguarding ethical principles and social values.