AI in Healthcare: Why physicians need more than digital skills

Dylan | World Lifestyle Organisation Author

A new review highlights what doctors really need to work safely with AI: not just technical skills, but empathy, ethics, and trust. Here’s what this m

Can artificial intelligence truly support healthcare without losing the human touch?

A new systematic review from University Medical Center Utrecht shows that physicians need more than technical knowledge to work responsibly with AI at the bedside (British Medical Bulletin, 2025).

Key Facts:

- AI can match or even surpass human specialists in certain medical tasks (WHO, 2023).

- 70% of healthcare organizations report barriers in staff training for digital tools (BMJ, 2023).

- Patients consistently value empathy, trust, and communication above technology in their care (WHO, 2022).

Why are digital skills not enough?

The review found that physicians must learn to use AI tools — but that is only part of the picture. Doctors also need to understand how algorithms work, detect errors, and collaborate with data scientists (British Medical Bulletin, 2025). Without this, AI could add risks instead of improving care.

What role do human skills play?

Interestingly, the study emphasizes that AI cannot replace empathy, emotional intelligence, or human judgement. Listening carefully, interpreting body language, and building trust remain central to safe and compassionate care (British Medical Bulletin, 2025). As the authors put it: only humans can practice "the art of medicine".

How does AI change the patient–doctor relationship?

AI may reduce routine tasks, giving physicians more “time to care”. But it also risks creating distance if patients feel they are treated by a machine rather than a person. Shared decision-making will become even more important: physicians will need to explain AI recommendations clearly, and support patients in making informed choices (British Medical Bulletin, 2025).

What does this mean for WLO?

At WLO, we see this research as a call to action. We believe that:

- Training for healthcare professionals must balance digital skills with human skills.

- Ethical reflection and communication training should be part of all AI education.

- Patients should be involved in shaping how AI is introduced in care settings.

This way, AI can become a partner in health — supporting doctors and patients, not replacing their bond.

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Categories: : Worldwide Health, Your Healthcare