AI Enhanced Telemedicine: A Double-Edged Sword for Healthcare Equity in the Post-COVID Era
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijdht.858Keywords:
AI Enhanced Telemedicine, Healthcare Equity, Post-COVID Era, COVID-19Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into telemedicine, leading to widespread adoption of tools such as predictive algorithms, chatbots, and remote monitoring systems. Although initially introduced as an emergency response, AI-enabled telemedicine has become a sustained component of healthcare delivery. It has improved access to care through virtual consultations, reduced geographic and financial barriers, and supported early diagnosis and chronic disease management. AI also enhances efficiency by automating administrative tasks and improving clinical decision-making. However, challenges persist, including the digital divide, algorithmic bias from non-representative datasets, and concerns regarding data privacy and patient trust. Addressing these issues requires equity-centered strategies such as improved digital infrastructure, bias auditing, and inclusive dataset development. Overall, AI-enhanced telemedicine offers significant promise but must be implemented cautiously to avoid widening existing healthcare inequities while improving quality and accessibility of care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Syeda Samia Fatima, Ayesha Ahmed, Arsalan Shakeel, Wajeeha Zehra (Author)
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