The International Tinnitus Journal

Balancing Act: Navigating the Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and WHO's Role in Shaping the Future

The integration of technology in healthcare has revolutionized patient care, enabling personalized and efficient medical treatments and interventions. The expansive growth of digital healthcare technologies is crucial for enhancing patientprovider communication, optimizing treatment plans, and managing disease prevention and health surveillance. As the World Health Organization (WHO) leverages its global influence, it advocates for the ethical use and governance of emerging technologies like Large Multi-Modal Models (LMMs), which have shown promising capabilities in areas ranging from diagnosis to medical education. However, ethical challenges, such as maintaining autonomy, ensuring equity, and protecting privacy, necessitate stringent governance to avoid potential disparities and misuse. The collaboration between WHO and other global bodies, such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), emphasizes the development of global standards and guidelines to ensure safe, effective, and equitable digital health solutions. The continual adaptation of technology in healthcare demands comprehensive regulations, transparent practices, and international cooperation to uphold the standards that protect and enhance patient well-being and public health.