Communication and Media Codes Journal

A JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA

ADOPTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN DOCTOR-PATIENT COMMUNICATION

Author(s) Name:
Ms. Theresa Otung Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Enugu State. Email: otungtheresa@gmail.com
Year of Publication:
2024
Volume:
Vol. 1. August, 2024

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) one of the most revolutionary technological advancements to emerge in recent times is remodeling and shaping the world. As the healthcare sector evolves, the integration of AI in Doctor-patient communication becomes increasingly prevalent. Doctor-patient communication encompasses verbal and non-verbal interactions aimed at creating a good interpersonal relationship, facilitating exchange of information and including patients in decision making for their overall health care.

The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, particularly in the communication between doctors and patients, represents a transformative shift in the health sector. This paper which is theoretical, evaluates the utilization of AI in doctors/patient communication using the theoretical framework of Technology acceptance model. This theory, explores users’ acceptance and adoption of technology. It posits that perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) are key determinants of an individual’s intention to use and actual usage of a technology. This evaluation examines doctor-patient communication, approaches to doctor-patient communication with a focus on Paternalism and patient-centredness, the various applications of AI in doctors/patient communication, such as virtual health assistants, chatbots, and telemedicine platforms for teleconsultation, accessing information, scheduling of appointments etc. overall treatment and patient management.

It scrutinizes the extent to which these technologies meet the diverse needs of users, taking into account factors like accessibility, usability, and reliability. For patients, the convenience of timely medical information, appointment scheduling, and personalized health advice constitutes a significant satisfaction. Meanwhile, doctors benefit from streamlined administrative tasks, improved diagnostic support, and enhanced patient engagement.

Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief

Prof. Michael O. Ukonu

Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Dr Blessing Chinweobo-Onuoha

Associate Editors

Prof. L.I. Anorue

Prof. J. Wogu

Prof. G. Ezeah

Prof. C.C. Okpoko

Review

Dr Chidiebere Nwachukwu

Dr Ozioma Nwokedi

Dr Victor Nwogbo

Dr Belinda Anyakoha

Dr Uchenna Eze

Dr Ike Ugbor

Secretary

Dr Stephen Ogbodoh

Design Editor

Dr Ike Elike

Business Manager

Dr Martin Ezugwu

Editorial Consultants

Prof. Nnanyelugo Okoro, Department of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State

Professor Sunny Udezeh, Department of Mass Communication, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Enugu State

Professor Ezekiel Asemah, Vice Chancellor’s Office, Glorious Vision University, Benin, Edo State

Professor Jude Terna Kur, Department of Information Science and Media Studies, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji, School of Communications, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos State

Prof Walter Ihejirika  

Dr. Chukwujekwu Charles Onwuka Department of Sociology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus. Email: cc.onwuka@coou.edu.ng
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