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Healthcare 2

E141 ‘A System-Centric Approach in Healthcare AI Development’ with Mark Sujan

Welcome to episode 141 of the AI Ireland podcast, the show that explores the applications and research of Data Science, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence on the island of Ireland.

Our mission is to increase the use of AI for the benefit of our society, our competitiveness and everyone living in Ireland.

On April 16th, AI Ireland founder Mark Kelly hosted and moderated the “Improving Health Outcomes Through AI” at the National Healthcare Outcomes Conference at the RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland).  In the coming weeks, we will share bite-sized podcasts of the conference talks to inspire others about the possibilities of AI in healthcare. 

Today’s guest is Mark Sujan, Professor of Safety Science at Centre for Assuring Autonomy at the University of York. In the episode, Mark gives an overview of his talk at the RCSI Conference in which he talked about the need for a shift towards a human-centered approach to AI in healthcare, advocating for a transition from a technology-centric focus to a systems perspective. 

Mark highlights the importance of considering the complexity of clinical systems and designing AI technologies to work effectively within them, while also addressing concerns about safety and stakeholder engagement. He also stressed that safety in healthcare AI is not solely about the technology itself but rather about how it is used within the clinical system.

Mark discusses the need to design interactions that prioritise the well-being of patients, healthcare providers and other stakeholders, emphasising the importance of maintaining relationships in the face of technological advancements.

Addressing common fears surrounding AI, he acknowledges that much of the apprehension stems from media representations and concerns about job displacement. However, he argued that AI should be viewed as a tool to augment rather than replace human capabilities, potentially leading to improvements in healthcare delivery.

Mark speaks about the importance of earning and maintaining trust among patients and healthcare professionals, underscoring the need to reassure them that AI will not negatively impact their care or relationships. 

He emphasises the positive feedback from patients regarding AI in healthcare but noted the importance of addressing their concerns. This will include qualifying their support based on trust in healthcare providers and the assurance that AI will enhance, rather than detract from, their care experiences.

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AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read this month. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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Presentations

AI Tribes: The Dynamic world of AI and it’s implications in the industry

The dynamic world of Artificial Intelligence and its implications for various sectors was the topic of discussion as AI Ireland Founder Mark Kelly joined Accenture’s Paul Walsh and Dogpatch Labs Niamh Sterling at an insightful AI Tribes in Dublin last month.

The conversation delved into regulatory approaches to AI in different regions, comparing the EU’s stringent regulations with the US’s more innovative stance, and the UK’s sector-specific approach. Mark highlighted the EU’s focus on privacy by design and human-centric AI. 

“So there’s certain parameters that are being put in place,” he said. “From the EU perspective, they’ve got a real approach for privacy by design, human centric approach with AI and they want to be very specific where people are using that to provide kind of guardrails to that”

The discussion then shifted to technological advancements in AI, with a focus on the democratisation of AI tools and the need for differentiation in a competitive landscape. Paul emphasized the importance of data and domain expertise, while Mark highlighted the potential of leveraging proprietary data for competitive advantage.

Both Paul and Mark also emphasised the transformative potential of AI across various industries, citing examples from customer service to healthcare. Mark shared insights into how everyday AI tools are enhancing productivity.

“From a business perspective, being a solopreneur, working in an SME or a large enterprise, there’s never a better time to be  productive,” he said. “The tools that you can take off the shelf that you can purchase now will genuinely save you 5 to 10 hours per week productivity with no issue whatsoever.”

As the discussion wrapped up, both speakers expressed optimism about Ireland’s future in AI, highlighting the country’s strong foundation, innovative initiatives like Accenture’s Gen AI Studio, and the potential for startups to thrive in the AI ecosystem.

In conclusion, they provided valuable insights into the regulatory, technological and societal implications of AI, highlighting the opportunities and challenges ahead as we navigate the evolving AI landscape.

“If you ask the general public is, they don’t trust AI,” Mark highlighted. “So if you start with lack of trust, you can’t really build a strong business model on that. So when you start from there and you build it up, that becomes better.

“What I think we need to be cognizant of though, is having some type of balance. With the AI EU Act, they’ve really looked for that balance. Now, they can say: listen, look at the introductions of AI, come to our sandbox, try it out.  We’ll give you feedback. Let’s put it into practice.”

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News

EU Parliament approves the AI Act in landslide vote

In a historic development, the European Union Parliament has endorsed the world’s inaugural comprehensive set of regulatory guidelines designed to govern the swiftly evolving domain of Artificial Intelligence. 

The EU AI Act was approved at the Parliament’s Wednesday session, with 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 votes not cast. This monumental decision follows extensive negotiations and marks a notable stride forward in addressing the potential risks and benefits associated with AI technology.

The EU AI Act, originating in 2021, is being celebrated as a groundbreaking legislative framework aimed at fostering responsible advancement and utilisation of AI systems. Through the categorisation of AI technologies according to their risk levels, ranging from “unacceptable” to low hazard, the act seeks to strike a delicate balance between promoting innovation and safeguarding fundamental rights.

Thierry Breton, the European Commissioner for the internal market, said: “Europe is NOW a global standard-setter in AI,” highlighting the EU’s dedication to shaping the trajectory of AI governance. The adoption of the AI Act represents a significant milestone for the EU, positioning it as a frontrunner in establishing ethical guidelines for emerging technologies.

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, has stressed the pivotal role of the act in fostering innovation while ensuring accountability. She has lauded it as “trailblazing,” recognising its role in seamlessly integrating AI into existing legislative frameworks.

Nevertheless, the path to effective AI regulation does not conclude with the enactment of the act. Implementation poses a substantial challenge, as noted by Dragos Tudorache, a key figure in EU negotiations, who acknowledges that the true test lies in translating regulatory principles into actionable policies.

One pivotal aspect of the AI Act is its prohibition of certain high-risk uses of AI, such as social scoring systems and manipulative techniques. Through the imposition of stringent rules and disclosure requirements, the act aims to tackle concerns regarding the misuse of AI, including the proliferation of deepfakes and disinformation.

While the EU’s proactive stance on AI regulation has garnered praise from experts and industry stakeholders, it has also triggered debates and criticisms. Some EU nations, including Germany and France, have pushed for less restrictive regulations, citing fears that stringent measures could hinder innovation and competitiveness with global tech giants.

Critics of the AI Act have expressed concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and the reliance on self-assessment by companies to determine the risk level of their AI systems. They argue that robust regulatory oversight is necessary to ensure compliance and safeguard individuals’ rights amidst the rapid advancement of AI technologies.

Nevertheless, the adoption of the AI Act represents a significant milestone in international AI regulation. Legal professionals and industry experts view it as a blueprint for other nations to emulate, establishing a precedent for responsible AI governance in the digital era.

Looking forward, the effective implementation of the AI Act will necessitate collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and civil society to address emerging challenges and opportunities. 

As AI continues to shape our society and economy, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and ethical considerations, ensuring that AI serves the greater good while upholding fundamental rights and values.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News Presentations

Navigating the Future: Insights from AI Ireland’s Mark Kelly on Newstalk Radio

In a thought-provoking conversation on Newstalk Radio, Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland, sat down with renowned presenter Pat Kenny to explore the intricate landscape of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the future of work, the pivotal role of education, and the careful consideration of AI’s unintended consequences. 

This wide-ranging interview offered profound insights into the evolving relationship between technology and humanity, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges we face as we step into a future increasingly shaped by AI.

The Future of Work: Embracing Change with Optimism

Pat Kenny opened the discussion by delving into the future of work, a topic of immense importance as AI continues to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible. 

Mark shared his optimistic vision, emphasising how AI can enhance productivity, foster innovation, and create new opportunities within various industries. He highlighted the pros of AI integration, such as increased efficiency and the potential to free humans from repetitive tasks, allowing for a focus on creative and strategic endeavours that require a human touch.

However, this transformation isn’t without its challenges. Mark candidly discussed the potential cons, including the displacement of jobs and the necessity for workers to adapt to a rapidly changing employment landscape. This shift underscores the importance of upskilling and reskilling, ensuring that the workforce is prepared to navigate the new dynamics introduced by AI advancements.

The Importance of Education: Preparing for a New Era

A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the role of education in preparing for the AI-driven future. Mark stressed the need for education systems to evolve, incorporating AI literacy and digital skills training from an early age. He argued that fostering a culture of lifelong learning is essential to enable individuals to stay relevant and competitive in an ever-changing job market.

According to Mark, education should not only focus on technical skills but also on developing critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence. These human-centric skills will become increasingly valuable as AI takes on more cognitive tasks, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to education that prepares individuals for all aspects of the future workforce.

Navigating Unintended Consequences: A Call for Responsible AI

Perhaps one of the most compelling parts of the interview was the discussion on the unintended consequences of AI. Pat raised concerns about the ethical implications and potential risks associated with widespread AI adoption. 

In response, Mark provided examples of how these issues might manifest, such as biases in AI algorithms that could lead to unfair decision-making processes or the misuse of AI technology.

Conclusion

Mark’s conversation with Pat Kenny on Newstalk Radio served as a compelling reminder of the transformative power of AI and the importance of thoughtful engagement with technology. 

As we look to the future, it’s clear that education, ethical considerations and a commitment to inclusivity will be key to unlocking the full potential of AI for the betterment of society.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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Presentations

Unleashing AI: Navigating the Future of Innovation and Ethics

At the Host in Ireland 2024 Global Partner Kickoff, AI expert and author Mark Kelly captivated attendees with a keynote on the dual nature of generative AI, balancing its transformative potential against ethical considerations. 

His insights into how AI can revolutionise industries while necessitating careful ethical practices resonated deeply, sparking engaging discussions among the 58 partners and 116 delegates from leading companies and six countries.

Taunya, Marketing Director at Host in Ireland, praised Mark’s presentation for its informative and engaging nature, reflecting the positive reception from an audience keen on understanding AI’s future applications and challenges.

Mark’s contribution not only aligned with Host in Ireland’s mission to promote Ireland as a prime data hosting location but also encouraged a thoughtful dialogue on leveraging AI responsibly, leaving a lasting impact on the event’s participants and reinforcing Ireland’s significant role in the global data hosting landscape.

Testimonial

“Mark Kelly delivered an exceptional keynote at yesterday’s Host in Ireland Kick Off Event, captivating every attendee with his profound insights into the future of AI. His involvement not only enriched our understanding but also sparked a lively, informative dialogue that resonated with all present. We are immensely grateful for his contribution and thank him for being such an outstanding speaker—a true highlight of our event.”

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News

EU AI Act Final Draft: Navigating the AI Act’s Impact on Organisations

The unveiling of the final text of the AI Act marks a pivotal moment in the regulatory landscape for Artificial Intelligence. With the Act swiftly progressing, organisations need to promptly adapt their AI strategies to meet the new legal and ethical standards.

In this article, AI Ireland delve into the critical aspects of the AI Act, highlighting recent significant changes and offering strategic insights to ensure organisations are both compliant and successful in the evolving AI environment.

Prohibited AI Systems

The final text of the AI Act prohibits various AI practices to safeguard against manipulation and harm. Noteworthy prohibitions include the use of AI systems employing subliminal techniques or exploiting vulnerabilities based on age, disability or social situations. 

Additionally, biometric categorisation systems inferring sensitive information and real-time remote biometric identification in public spaces for law enforcement are restricted. The Act also addresses concerns related to profiling and the creation of facial recognition databases through untargeted scraping.

High-Risk AI Systems

A significant change in the final text is the classification of AI systems as high-risk based on specific criteria, with a particular emphasis on profiling natural persons. Providers must undergo an AI Impact Assessment and register their systems in the EU database. Notably, the Act applies not only to providers placing AI systems on the market but also to deployers of general-purpose AI models, regardless of their location.

General Purpose AI

The AI Act introduces General Purpose AI models (GPAI models) as a new addition, defining them as models displaying significant generality and capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Notably, the Act exempts AI models used for research and development activities before market release. GPAI models, especially those with systemic risk, are subject to specific obligations, including standardised evaluations, risk assessments, and cooperation with authorities.

Deep Fakes

In the context of elections and beyond, the Act addresses deep fakes, requiring disclosure when an AI system generates or manipulates image, audio or video content. Notably, exemptions exist for authorised law enforcement use and artistic, creative, satirical or fictional works.

Human Oversight and Employer Obligations

The Act emphasises the importance of human oversight proportional to the risks and autonomy of AI systems. Employers deploying high-risk AI systems must inform workers and their representatives, aligning with EU and national laws and practices.

Codes of Practice

The AI Office plays a pivotal role in developing codes of practice to support the AI Act’s application. Involving various stakeholders, including AI model providers, the codes aim to ensure compliance with specific articles, focusing on key performance indicators and the interests of relevant parties.

Testing AI Systems

The AI Act’s final draft outlines conditions for testing high-risk AI systems outside regulatory sandboxes, emphasising ethical guidelines, informed consent and liability for damages caused during testing. SMEs and startups are given priority access to regulatory sandboxes.

Third-Party Agreements and Technical Documentation

Providers of high-risk AI systems must have written agreements with third parties, similar to GDPR obligations. Technical documentation requirements differ for SMEs and startups, providing a simplified submission process.

Fines and Timelines

Non-compliance with the AI Act incurs fines based on the severity of violations. The Act becomes applicable to prohibited systems in six months, GPAI models in 12 months and high-risk AI systems in 36 months.

Strategic Steps for Organisations

Organisations must proactively align their AI systems with the AI Act’s ethical and legal standards. Key steps include rigorous evaluations, robust documentation, disclosure measures for AI-generated content, investment in human oversight, transparent communication with employees, meticulous data governance, preparation for compliance costs, staying informed and strategic planning for timelines.

Mark Kelly, Founder at AI Ireland said the AI Act signifies a crucial shift towards responsible AI governance, urging organisations to embrace ethical AI aligned with societal value.

“I welcome the final text of the AI Act as a significant stride towards responsible AI governance. This Act represents a pivotal shift in our approach to AI, blending legal compliance with ethical responsibility, ” he said.

“It is vital for organisations to recognise that this is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but about embracing a culture of ethical AI use that aligns with our societal values. The Act’s emphasis on prohibited and high-risk AI systems, along with the introduction of general-purpose AI models and provisions on deep fakes, underscores the need for a comprehensive and forward-thinking AI strategy. 

“Organisations must act swiftly and strategically to adapt, ensuring their AI systems are not only compliant but also ethically aligned and socially responsible. This is an opportunity for businesses to lead in the era of AI by championing transparency, accountability, and human-centric AI practices.” 

The AI Act presents a paradigm shift in the regulatory landscape, requiring organizations to navigate multifaceted challenges and opportunities. By embracing a proactive approach, organisations can ensure compliance, maintain ethical standards and position themselves for success in the dynamic AI-driven regulatory environment. As the Act shapes the future of AI governance, strategic adaptation becomes imperative for organisations to thrive in this new era.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!