The digital revolution is knocking on our doors, and the health network is no exception. During his conference given at the 13^th Convention of the FIQ, Professor Vincent Pasquier (HEC Montréal) explained that artificial intelligence (AI) is already transforming our work, our professional relationships and the conditions in which we practise our profession.

While some uses of AI can support care, such as diagnostic assistance, wound monitoring or the automated drafting of clinical notes, others directly threaten professional autonomy, the quality of human relations and working conditions.

Vincent Pasquier highlighted:

• The arrival of algorithmic management, which monitors, evaluates and directs work (e.g. assigning schedules, controlling workloads, automated performance appraisals).
• The platformization of home care, where caregivers become ‘service providers’ governed by applications.
• The risk of losing clinical skills, if we rely too much on recommendations from machines rather than on professional judgment.
• The standardization of care to the detriment of human relationships, empathy and the ability to respond to unexpected situations.

AI is programed from human data and is therefore biased. Some technologies already under estimate the symptoms of racialized patients, as health studies have shown. These systemic biases can be detrimental to patient safety but also exacerbate discrimination in the workplace.

AI is not yet a widespread threat to healthcare professionals, but it is already transforming their tasks, their role and their recognition.

The unions’ role: take action early

Vincent Pasquier was clear: the earlier the unions are involved, the better the transformations will be. To achieve this, he proposes four key projects:

1. Develop a clear union vision: what we accept or reject.
2. Take stock: document the introduction of AI in our settings.
3. Adapt existing tools: agreements, committees, regulatory guidelines
4. Campaign for strong and inclusive regulation: insist that unions and healthcare professionals are involved from the very beginning in  developing AI tools.

Vigilance and union mobilization are essential if we are to ensure that the future of technology serves caregivers rather than replaces them. This conference revealed an indisputable fact: AI is already here. The union must be there too.

This is why the FIQ made it a major focus of its Convention and will continue to demand protection, a framework and full participation of healthcare professionals in the debates surrounding artificial intelligence. Because people must always be at the heart of care.

For more information: https://www.obvia.ca/ressources/guide-gouvernance-algorithmique