Artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare sparks hope, hype, and concerns. Healthcare leaders like Dr. Geeta Nayyar and Vinitha Ramnathan highlight AI’s vast potential but emphasize the need for careful, ethical integration. AI can streamline operations and improve patient care, but past lessons in healthcare technology, like electronic health records, show the risks of over-promising.

Nayyar, known as “Dr. G,” and Ramnathan discussed AI’s opportunities with Chief Healthcare Executive. They noted the importance of ensuring AI doesn’t worsen health disparities. Both experts agree that carefully managing AI is crucial to prevent it from amplifying bad habits and misinformation, which could harm underserved populations.

Ramnathan suggests using AI in non-diagnostic areas, like scheduling, to build trust, while Nayyar advocates for personalized medicine that considers diverse patient backgrounds. Both see AI’s potential to enhance care and efficiency but caution that it should always serve to support—not replace—human clinicians.

With AI rising, leaders must remain focused on building ethical, equitable systems to realize its promise in healthcare.