Eric J Topol –
The human bond between patient and clinician is fundamental. But the patient–doctor relationship is affected by the limited time allotted for a clinic visit or bedside rounds and the way clinicians need to update electronic records during a consultation (figure A). Such factors can result in the perception that clinicians lack compassion and empathy. Artificial intelligence (AI) could help restore the essential humaneness in medicine, primarily by providing the gift of time—the premise of my 2019 book Deep Medicine. What might more time help achieve? The ability to listen to a patient’s story and deep concerns (figure B); the necessity of a careful physical examination, reinforcing human touch and trust; and the genuine sense of care and compassion that lies in direct contrast to what software or machines can offer.
Read the full article in The Lancet.
