Privacy watchdog warns of high risks in AI medical diagnosis, recommends strict oversight

Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung Lai-ling has expressed concerns over the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical diagnosis by healthcare institutions worldwide, including Hong Kong, stating that it poses higher risks to personal data privacy and requires continuous monitoring.

Speaking to Sing Tao Daily, The Standard’s sister publication, Chung emphasized that medical data is highly sensitive personal information. Unjustified sharing of such data with technology companies could lead to serious breaches of privacy for individuals involved.

Her remarks come amid increasing adoption of AI tools in healthcare, where algorithms assist in diagnosing diseases and recommending treatments.

While AI can improve efficiency, Chung warned that without proper safeguards, patient confidentiality could be compromised.

Separately, Chung addressed concerns over employees using AI tools at work without their employers' knowledge.

A recent union survey revealed instances of staff privately utilizing AI for tasks, unbeknownst to their companies. Chung clarified that regardless of whether employers are aware, they bear ultimate responsibility if employees' use of AI results in personal data leaks.

When asked whether Hong Kong should introduce new laws specifically regulating AI, Chung noted that any legislation must balance privacy protection with technological advancement.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data will continue monitoring developments in other jurisdictions to assess the need for regulatory updates, she said.

(Marco Lam)