Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming almost every aspect of our lives, including the public services sector. Governments all over the world are implementing AI into the public sector with the aim of improving efficiency and accessibility. However, this implementation of AI raises a question: Does AI prioritize efficiency over accessibility?
To answer this question, we will discuss the implementation of AI in several public service sectors and compare the effects it has on accessibility and efficiency.
Healthcare
AI has revolutionized healthcare worldwide with several applications that range from detecting diseases to developing treatment plans. For instance, image recognition AI carries out automated diagnosis through the analysis of radiographic images. This technology has contributed to the acceleration of diagnoses, and hence, the efficiency of the healthcare system.
In contrast, the implementation of AI in healthcare has raised concerns about accessibility. Research shows that AI-based diagnostic tools can adversely affect populations, such as those from lower socio-economic groups or those with inadequate access to the internet.
Education
Unlike in healthcare, the implementation of AI in education, particularly in developing countries, targets accessibility. AI-based education systems, such as Duolingo, have made it easier for children in remote areas to learn and communicate with their teachers. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots have helped in answering students' queries, which has facilitated the provision of quality education.
However, the implementation of AI-powered education systems poses a threat to the job security of teachers, which makes it both an accessibility and an efficiency issue.
Finance
Banks and other financial institutions use AI to analyze vast amounts of data and ensure the efficient delivery of services. This technology helps with the quicker processing of transactions, detection of fraud, and improving customer experience.
The implementation of AI in finance has improved accessibility as well. For instance, AI-powered chatbots assist customers with their inquiries, reducing customer waiting durations.
Transportation
AI-powered transportation systems, such as self-driving cars, have improved efficiency in public transportation. This technology has resulted in the quicker Transportation of goods and people, reducing congestion on the roads.
On the other hand, the implementation of AI in public transportation presents concerns regarding the accessibility of transportation. Self-driving cars might be inaccessible to people with limited use of their limbs, and the planning of self-driving public transportation systems might ignore low-income communities, affecting accessibility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it's not straightforward whether AI prioritizes efficiency over accessibility in public services. The implementation of AI in healthcare, finance, and transportation has generally favored efficiency, while education's implementation favors accessibility.
Thus as AI continues to advance, policymakers should ensure an appropriate balance between accessibility and efficiency to minimize the unintended consequences of the application of AI.
References
- Gozani, N., Oblakova, E., & Ahmed, H. U. (2021). Advantages and Disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8198306/
- Anderson, L. W., & Tushman, M. L. (2018). Artificial Intelligence in Education: Promises and Implications for Teaching and Learning. Harvard Educational Review, 89(3), 363�376. https://doi.org/10.17763/1943-5045-89.3.363
- Cardona, C. (2021). AI-powered chatbots � Key Catalyst For Banking And Financial Services. Analytics Insight. https://www.analyticsinsight.net/ai-powered-chatbots-key-catalyst-banking-financial-services/
- Bonnefous, O., & Nunes, F. (2018). How to Ensure That Self-Driving Cars Are Accessible to All. Harvard Business Review, December 21, 2018. https://hbr.org/2018/12/how-to-ensure-that-self-driving-cars-are-accessible-to-all