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Navigating the Future: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Ethical AI Integration in Clinical Trials

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical trials is a rapidly evolving area of research, and a multi-stakeholder task force led by the MRCT Center and WCG is working to address the growing need for guidance. The task force is made up of experts from various domains, including Institutional Review Boards, academia, technology, patient advocates, and regulators, all working together to ensure that AI is used appropriately in clinical research.             

One of the challenges of using AI in clinical trials is the speed at which the technology is advancing. As soon as a new approach is developed, AI has already moved on, making it difficult to keep up with the latest developments.  

Additionally, there are concerns about participant burden and the complexity of using AI tools in clinical trials. For example, if a participant is required to use their own smartphone to collect data, there may be issues with data privacy and security.

Another challenge is the potential for bias in the selection of participants. If AI is used to scan medical records to find eligible participants, there may be concerns about how the public will perceive this use of their data. There is also the potential for bias if certain populations opt out of being contacted for clinical trials.

The task force is working to develop tools and guidelines to help IRBs and researchers navigate these challenges. By bringing together experts from various fields, the task force hopes to create a set of principles that will ensure the safe and ethical use of AI in clinical trials.             

In conclusion, the use of AI in clinical trials presents both opportunities and challenges. By working together, the multi-stakeholder task force led by the MRCT Center and WCG is helping to address these challenges and ensure that AI is used responsibly in clinical research.     

To learn more about this topic, listen to our podcast here: https://www.wcgclinical.com/insights/ethical-review-ai-in-clinical-trials/