AI’s Potential in Public Health Facilities in the Global South

By Sumona Bose

January 5, 2024

Introduction

In a new study, researchers from the “Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium” (ACADIC) project have highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing healthcare needs in the Global South. The interdisciplinary consortium, consisting of experts from various fields, aims to leverage AI and data innovation to improve public health and healthcare services in African countries. The concept of health and well-being has evolved beyond the absence of disease, encompassing physical, psychological, and social factors. AI and big data analytics (BDA) have the potential to transfigure healthcare by improving efficiency, effectiveness, and equity in service delivery. These technologies can predict disease risks, enhance laboratory functioning, monitor treatment outcomes, and forecast healthcare utilization. This article will uncover AI’s Potential in Public Health Facilities in the Global South.

The Importance of Ethical AI in Low Resource Countries

In low resource countries, access to quality healthcare is often limited due to various factors such as inadequate infrastructure, shortage of healthcare professionals, and limited financial resources. The introduction of AI in public health facilities has the potential to bridge this gap and provide much-needed support in delivering healthcare services.

Ethical AI should prioritize transparency and accountability. It is important for healthcare providers and policymakers to understand how AI algorithms arrive at their predictions and recommendations. This transparency allows for better decision-making and ensures that AI is used as a tool to support healthcare professionals rather than replace them.

Furthermore, access to AI technology should be equitable and inclusive. In low resource countries, where financial resources are limited, it is crucial to ensure that AI tools are accessible to all healthcare facilities, regardless of their size or location. This can be achieved through partnerships between governments, non-profit organizations, and AI consulting firms, who can provide the necessary expertise and resources to implement AI solutions in a cost-effective manner. There is a lot of AI’s potential in Public Health Facilities in the Global South.

‘Ethical and Equity’ of AI and BDA

To ensure meaningful and impactful implementation, there is an urgent need for socially and ethically responsible AI and BDA that are inclusive and collaborative. This includes research, training, diverse and representative databases, algorithms, platforms, and infrastructure.

“Responsible” AI and BDA prioritize fairness, inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, explainability, human-centeredness, privacy, and security. These practices mitigate risks such as biases in algorithms, privacy concerns, security issues, and implementation responsibilities in real-world healthcare settings.

Equity in health is a core value, particularly in resource-limited areas where poverty and inequities prevail. Strengthening sustainable health research capacity in the Global South is crucial. This involves adequate funding, equitable collaborations, mentoring and training of researchers, and linking research outcomes to policies and practices. It also requires decolonizing global health research and acknowledging non-western forms of knowledge and authority.

Conclusion

The potential of AI in public health facilities in the Global South is immense. However, it is essential to prioritize ethical use and access to AI to ensure its successful implementation. By incorporating ethical considerations and tailoring AI algorithms to the local context, low resource countries can harness the power of AI to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce health disparities.

Reference url

Recent Posts

MASLD CKD socioeconomic link
    

Exploring the MASLD CKD Socioeconomic Link

🌍 Are socioeconomic factors influencing your health more than you realise?

Our latest article looks into the intriguing link between Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), revealing significant geographical and socioeconomic correlations. Discover how understanding these relationships can inform public health strategies and improve health equity worldwide.

Dive into the findings and implications for health outcomes!

#SyenzaNews #HealthEconomics #globalhealth #HealthcareInnovation

toripalimab nasopharyngeal carcinoma
        

Toripalimab Evidence Journey in Cancer Care

🚀 How did toripalimab become the first immunotherapy approved in the U.S. for nasopharyngeal carcinoma?

The toripalimab evidence journey began with clinical trials in Asia. The JUPITER-02 trial showed toripalimab plus chemotherapy extended median progression-free survival (PFS) to 21.4 months versus 8.2 months with chemotherapy alone

#SyenzaNews #oncology #HealthcareInnovation

blood cancer treatments
        

NICE Breakthrough: Record Positive Recommendations for Blood Cancer Treatments in 2024

🚀 The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has made great strides in 2024, reporting a record number of positive recommendations for blood cancer therapies. This pivotal moment not only accelerates patient access to advanced treatments but also highlights the importance of precision medicine in oncology care.

Curious to learn how these advancements are reshaping the healthcare landscape and improving patient outcomes? Explore the full article for insights!

#SyenzaNews #oncology #HealthcareInnovation

When you partner with Syenza, it’s like a Nuclear Fusion.

Our expertise are combined with yours, and we contribute clinical expertise and advanced degrees in health policy, health economics, systems analysis, public finance, business, and project management. You’ll also feel our high-impact global and local perspectives with cultural intelligence.

SPEAK WITH US

CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS

1950 W. Corporate Way, Suite 95478
Anaheim, CA 92801, USA

© 2025 Syenza™. All rights reserved.