AI Should Assist, Not Replace, Doctors in Medical Diagnosis, Says Indonesian Medical Association
The Indonesian Medical Association stresses AI supports doctors but does not replace them. Final diagnosis and treatment decisions remain with physicians.
AI as a Medical Tool: Diagnosis Remains the Doctor’s Duty, Says Indonesian Medical Association
The Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) emphasizes that artificial intelligence (AI) should support doctors rather than replace them. Iqbal Mochtar, a board member of IDI, responded to comments from the Health Minister suggesting that doctors who resist AI may fall behind technological progress.
"AI is a tool that doctors will increasingly rely on. It acts as a support system," Iqbal explained. He compared AI to familiar medical devices such as stethoscopes, lab tests, and spirometry, which aid clinical decisions but do not replace the physician’s judgment.
AI Enhances Diagnosis, But Final Decisions Are Medical
AI can analyze patient data, suggest potential diagnoses, and offer treatment options. It can also interpret diagnostic exams like X-rays or lab results, providing an initial assessment for doctors to review.
However, the responsibility for confirming diagnoses and choosing treatments remains firmly with the doctor. "Doctors must skillfully use AI to filter and interpret data, but the ultimate clinical decision is theirs," Iqbal said.
Cautious Use of AI in Clinical Practice
While AI can improve diagnostic accuracy, it’s not infallible. Iqbal stresses that AI should be carefully evaluated, and doctors must verify whether AI-generated recommendations are appropriate for each patient.
This approach ensures that AI remains a helpful assistant rather than a source of unchecked medical decisions. Doctors need to develop competence in AI tools but maintain critical clinical judgment to safeguard patient care.
- AI supports but does not replace doctors in diagnosis and treatment
- Doctors must interpret AI results within the broader clinical context
- Safe and effective AI use requires ongoing medical oversight
For healthcare professionals interested in expanding their knowledge of AI tools in medicine, training resources are available at Complete AI Training.
