The Minister of Health, Michalis Damianou, emphasized the state’s active support for new technologies and innovative solutions, particularly in healthcare, to improve the quality of life for citizens. Speaking at a conference titled “Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare Services – The Role of Bioethics and Medical Ethics,” organized by the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee in collaboration with the Greek Bioethics and Technoethics Committee, Damianou also stressed the need to uphold fundamental bioethical principles.

“Only under these conditions can we fully harness the potential of Artificial Intelligence without risking violations of fundamental human rights and patient safety,” he noted.

Describing AI as one of the 21st century’s most significant technological developments, Damianou highlighted its transformative impact on healthcare. Many medical schools worldwide, he noted, are already integrating AI into their curricula.

Thanks to its advanced capabilities, AI can enhance diagnostics, provide personalized treatments, and contribute to disease prevention. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets, including medical images, records, and genetic information, far exceeding human processing capacity.

Additionally, AI is advancing other critical areas such as telemedicine, robotic surgery, and drug research and development.

Damianou pointed to organizations in Cyprus already adopting AI, such as the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, the Biobank Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus, and the German Oncology Center.

Despite its benefits, Damianou acknowledged the ethical dilemmas posed by integrating AI into healthcare.

“Processing large volumes of sensitive patient data introduces risks to privacy and security. Strong data protection systems must ensure that data is used appropriately and anonymized where necessary,” he stressed.

He also warned about inequalities in access to AI-based healthcare services, noting that socioeconomically privileged groups could benefit disproportionately. “Ensuring fair and equal access for all patients is an ethical imperative,” he said.

Damianou also highlighted the legal uncertainty surrounding accountability in cases of errors, such as misdiagnoses or incorrect treatments. Questions remain about whether responsibility lies with data providers, system manufacturers, or the healthcare professionals using AI tools.

He emphasized the need for legislative solutions to address these issues.

Damianou reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting innovative technologies across sectors, particularly in healthcare, to enhance citizens' quality of life.

“As the use of AI in medicine becomes increasingly prevalent, the need to uphold fundamental bioethical principles, as outlined in the Oviedo Convention ratified by Cyprus, is more pressing than ever,” he concluded.