A Consultant Neurologist at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Dr. Temitope Farombi, has stressed the importance of training physicians on the proper use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance healthcare delivery.
Dr. Farombi made the remarks on Tuesday at the 2025 Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Oyo State Physicians’ Week Scientific Conference in Ibadan. She also serves as the Medical Director of Brain Health Initiatives and O’Health Company. Her presentation was titled: “Artificial Intelligence, Ethics and The Physicians’ Roles in Modern Healthcare.”
According to Farombi, AI applications in healthcare must comply with medical device regulations, patient privacy requirements, and professional licensing standards. She emphasized that the growing use of AI in diagnostics and treatment planning requires strict adherence to safety and efficacy standards.
Highlighting recent innovations, Farombi noted that AI has the potential to improve patient outcomes and workflow efficiency across healthcare delivery. “From diagnostics to treatment and home care, AI can support health professionals and patients at every stage of the care continuum,” she said.
She added that AI could help manage and optimize the use of equipment, hospital beds, and staff by providing predictive insights. However, Farombi reassured that the role of physicians remains indispensable.
“AI can analyze data, but not emotions. Patients trust doctors, not machines. Compassion, listening, and ethical judgment are irreplaceable,” she said.
She further warned that ethical concerns such as fairness, privacy, and accountability must be carefully addressed. Physicians play a crucial role in ensuring AI is used responsibly, combining technology with human judgment, compassion, and professional ethics to deliver safe and equitable care.
“AI tools must be thoroughly tested to prevent harm through errors or incorrect advice. Systems should be accessible to all patients, not just those in wealthy or urban areas,” she added.
Dr. Farombi also stressed the importance of safeguarding patient data and ensuring that patients understand how AI influences their diagnoses and treatments. “Doctors need proper training to use AI tools correctly and avoid misuse or misinterpretation,” she concluded.
