Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its Application in Health Care: An Islamic Perspective

Abstract

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare systems worldwide has ushered in transformative opportunities for diagnostics, treatment personalization, and patient management. However, these advancements also present complex ethical challenges that require careful consideration within diverse cultural and religious frameworks, including Islam. This article explores the application of AI in healthcare from an Islamic perspective, with a particular focus on the ethical, legal, and religious implications for medical accountability, patient autonomy, and data privacy. Islamic bioethics is rooted in the principles of divine permission, human stewardship, and the preservation of life, intellect, and dignity. The integration of AI in medicine must align with these foundational values, ensuring that technological innovations serve the common good (maslaha) and do not compromise the moral responsibilities of healthcare providers. Traditional Islamic jurisprudence emphasizes the accountability of physicians to both God and patients, requiring competence, transparency, and informed consent. As AI systems increasingly assist or even autonomously perform medical tasks, questions arise regarding the allocation of liability—whether it remains with the physician, extends to medical teams and institutions, or even includes AI developers in cases of error or harm. The concept of collective liability (dhimmah mushtarakah) is gaining traction in contemporary Islamic discourse, reflecting the collaborative nature of modern healthcare and the distributed responsibility inherent in AI-driven interventions. Furthermore, Islamic ethics mandate the protection of patient privacy and the prevention of harm, necessitating robust safeguards against data misuse and algorithmic bias. The principle of justice (adl) requires that AI tools be accessible and non-discriminatory, addressing disparities in healthcare delivery. This article synthesizes insights from classical and contemporary Islamic scholarship, case studies from Muslim-majority countries, and interdisciplinary research to propose a framework for ethically integrating AI in healthcare. It argues that while AI holds immense potential to enhance medical practice, its adoption must be guided by Islamic values of compassion, trust, and accountability, ensuring that technology remains a tool for human flourishing rather than a source of ethical conflict. The analysis underscores the need for ongoing dialogue among religious scholars, healthcare professionals, and technologists to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in medicine.