Dr. Jessica Morley Advocates for Ethical Standards

Dr. Jessica Morley, a prominent figure in digital healthcare ethics and a postdoctoral researcher at Yale University’s Digital Ethics Center, emphasizes the need for stricter regulations surrounding ambient voice technologies (AVT). Known for her candid approach, Morley is set to speak at the upcoming Digital Health Summer Schools.

Concerns Over AI Hyper-Personalization

Morley expresses her concerns regarding the NHS’s focus on hyper-personalization of AI, arguing that it detracts from the potential of AI to benefit the broader population. She states:

• The current trend shifts responsibility from the healthcare system to individuals.
• Empowerment rhetoric often overlooks systemic factors affecting health.
• Addressing social determinants of health is complex but essential.

Need for Horizontal Data Sets

Morley advocates for a shift in the NHS data strategy from vertical to horizontal data sets, which would allow for a more comprehensive analysis of environmental factors affecting health.

Risks of Unregulated AVT

With the UK government encouraging the use of AVT, Morley warns of the risks associated with uncontrolled deployment:

• AVT technologies are often misunderstood as merely passive listeners.
• They can misinterpret data, leading to potential misdiagnoses.
• Many AVT tools should be classified as medical devices but currently are not.

UK’s Position as an AI Superpower

When discussing the UK’s ambition to become an AI superpower, Morley notes:

• The UK faces stiff competition from the US and China.
• Investment and deregulation trends in the US pose challenges.
• To succeed, the UK must attract skilled talent while balancing immigration policies.

Ethical Use of Health Data

Morley believes it is possible to use health data ethically without hindering innovation. She argues:

• Public good and patient privacy can coexist.
• Technical solutions exist to protect privacy while facilitating data use.
• Transparency and accountability are crucial in data access and usage.

Upcoming Presentation at Summer Schools

Dr. Morley will discuss the intersection of AI and the NHS at the Digital Health Summer Schools 2025, scheduled for July 17-18 at the University of Warwick. The event is supported by various sponsors, including Microsoft and AWS.