Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Ethical Frameworks for AI in Public Health

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized the ethical implications of AI technologies in public health. With the rapid integration of AI into various public health functions, the CDC has established frameworks to guide the responsible use of these technologies.

Ethical Concerns

1. Equity and Justice:
   • The CDC emphasizes the need for AI applications to be designed with equity in mind, ensuring that they do not exacerbate existing health disparities. AI should actively promote justice in healthcare access and outcomes​(CDC)​(EY US).
2. Transparency and Accountability:
   • The processes behind AI decision-making must be transparent. Stakeholders should understand how AI technologies are used and their potential impacts on public health outcomes. This transparency fosters trust and accountability among communities​(CDC)​(EY US).
3. Informed Consent:
   • The principle of informed consent is crucial when deploying AI in public health. Patients and community members must be informed about how AI technologies will be utilized in their care and data management​(CDC)​(EY US).

Guidelines for Ethical AI Use

The CDC’s ethical framework for AI includes the following guidelines:

1. Community Engagement:
   • Involving communities in the development and deployment of AI technologies is essential to ensure that their needs and concerns are addressed. Engaging stakeholders can lead to more effective and acceptable AI solutions​(CDC)​(EY US).
2. Risk-Benefit Analysis:
   • A thorough risk-benefit analysis should be conducted for AI applications. This analysis evaluates potential impacts on public health and ensures that the benefits of AI outweigh any associated risks​(CDC)​(EY US).

The CDC’s frameworks aim to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly in public health, protecting the rights and interests of individuals and communities. For more information on the CDC’s ethical frameworks, visit their official site here.