Social Work and AI in Healthcare: Toward Collaborative Models of Support and Care

Samenvatting

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare offers transformative potential, especially when combined with social work principles, to provide holistic and effective care. This paper explores the role of social work in AI-driven healthcare systems, advocating for collaborative models that balance technological innovation with human-centered care. AI technologies, such as predictive analytics, natural language processing, and machine learning, can significantly enhance patient care by providing insights into health patterns, facilitating early diagnosis, and offering personalized treatment options. However, the adoption of AI also raises ethical concerns, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the risk of depersonalizing care. Social workers, with their expertise in understanding the psychosocial aspects of healthcare, can play a pivotal role in ensuring that AI systems are designed and implemented in ways that respect patient dignity, promote equitable care, and prioritize emotional and social well-being. Collaborative models of support are necessary, where social workers contribute to the development, application, and evaluation of AI technologies, ensuring they are aligned with the values of human rights and social justice. These models can improve patient outcomes by addressing both the technical and emotional needs of individuals. This paper highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare providers, AI experts, and social workers, aiming to create a care environment where technology and humanity coexist to enhance overall well-being.