WHO/Europe Establishes AI Ethics Group
The World Health Organization’s Europe office has recently formed a Technical Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence for Health (TAG-AI). This group is dedicated to fostering the safe and ethical application of AI technologies in healthcare. Its mandate emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the establishment of safety protocols to guide AI use. TAG-AI also contributes to building capacity and shaping policies for emerging AI applications such as natural language processing and machine learning in medical contexts.
Guinea-Bissau’s Digital Drug Tracking Initiative
In a significant move towards improving pharmaceutical supply integrity, Guinea-Bissau has introduced a national digital system for pharmaceutical traceability. This system aims to track medicines throughout the supply chain to prevent illegal distribution, combat counterfeit drugs, and address shortages. Central to this initiative is the National Catalogue of Medicines, which promotes accountability and transparency across healthcare providers and distributors, enhancing overall drug safety for patients.
AI and Digital Health: A Converging Future for Safety
These initiatives, though distinct in their focus, represent a shared global effort to integrate AI and digital technologies with healthcare systems to improve patient safety and public health outcomes. The WHO’s establishment of an ethical advisory body underscores the importance of responsible AI governance, while Guinea-Bissau’s practical deployment of a digital drug tracking system demonstrates tangible advances in securing medical supply chains. Together, they highlight a broader trend towards leveraging technology to create more secure, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare worldwide.
