Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Patient-Healthcare Provider Communication in the Digital Era
Author(s) Name:
Aruwa, Joel Eleojo Department of Mass Communication Prince Abubakar Audu University Anyigba, Kogi State, aruwa.je@ksu.edu.ng
Greg H. Ezeah &
Michael O. Ukonu, Department of Mass Communication University of Nigeria, Nsukka Enugu State.
Year of Publication:
2024
Volume:
Vol. 1. August, 2024

Abstract
The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought transformative changes to various sectors, and the healthcare is no exception. This paper thematically assesses the impact of AI on patient- healthcare provider communication, specifically focusing on enhancing health information exchange and decision-making in the digital era. As technology evolves, the healthcare landscape is witnessing a paradigm shift towards more efficient and personalized approaches. AI’s integration into healthcare systems has paved the way for advanced health information exchange. Through intelligent algorithms and data analytics, AI facilitates the seamless flow of information between patients and providers, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of individual health profiles. This exchange empowers healthcare professionals with timely and relevant data, allowing for more informed decision- making. In the realm of patient- healthcare provider communication, AI plays a pivotal role in optimizing interactions. However, as the healthcare sector embraces AI, challenges such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and the need for standardized protocols must be addressed especially in a country like Nigeria. Striking a balance between technological advancements and ethical guidelines is crucial to harness the full potential of AI in patient- provider communication. This paper concludes that, the integration of AI in healthcare is reshaping patient- healthcare provider communication by improving health information exchange and decision-making. While presenting unprecedented opportunities, it is essential to navigate ethical considerations and ensure a harmonious coexistence of technology and human-centric healthcare delivery in the digital era.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, chatbots, communication, digital era, health, patient- healthcare provider.
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 IhejirikaDr. Chukwujekwu Charles Onwuka Department of Sociology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus. Email: cc.onwuka@coou.edu.ng
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