Difficult Decisions in Brussels: Representing the European Commission, Sandra Gallina assured that the executive will strive to “honor the social contract,” while acknowledging that governments face tough decisions. She defended the move to reduce the EU4Health program by 20% to support the war efforts in Ukraine.
Is the Situation That Dire? Pamela Rendi-Wagner, head of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, remarked that people were discussing the social contract as a deeply flawed entity. She stated, “I don’t think [it] is really at that stage … we should be more proud of what we have achieved,” surprising moderator Nick Fahy with her optimism.
Distrust in AI: At the conference, experts highlighted that artificial intelligence would enhance healthcare only if public trust is established — a goal not yet fully realized.
Mixed Reception: AI is expected to significantly boost European competitiveness and efficiency, particularly in healthcare, where it could “transform” the sector, noted Lucilla Sioli, director of the EU AI Office in DG CONNECT.
However, healthcare professionals remain skeptical. Sioli recalled attempts to distribute free AI-enabled technology to European hospitals during the Covid crisis, which were often declined.
Reason for Doubt: Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, WHO Europe’s director of health policies and systems, suggested that the lack of conclusive evidence might explain the skepticism. She emphasized the need to demonstrate that AI truly supports healthcare practitioners and patients and frees up time.
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