Ethical Algorithmic Advice: Some Reasons to Pause and Think Twice

Abstract

Machine learning and other forms of artificial intelligence (AI) can improve parts of clinical decision making regarding the gathering and analysis of data, the detection of disease, and the provision of treatment recommendations. The target article “Algorithms for Ethical Decision-Making in the Clinic: A Proof of Concept” (Meier et al. Citation2022) explores the less-examined possibility of using this technology to provide ethical advice. The article examines the feasibility of an algorithmic advisory system for clinical ethics called METHAD, which is designed to provide recommendations to clinicians facing difficult ethical questions.