Addressing the Ethical, Legal, and Regulatory Challenges in the Deployment of Medical Robots

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the ethical, legal, and regulatory challenges associated with deploying medical robots in healthcare. It aims to identify key issues, propose solutions, and highlight the implications of these challenges on patient safety, data privacy, and equitable access.

Methodology

A qualitative approach was adopted, combining a systematic literature review . Data sources included peer-reviewed journals, policy papers, and reports from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and regulatory bodies. Thematic analysis was used to categorize challenges and identify emerging trends.

Findings

The study highlights the following challenges:

1. Ethical Issues:

• Lack of transparency in AI algorithms powering medical robots.


• Concerns about bias in decision-making and patient outcomes.

1. Legal Challenges:

• Ambiguity in liability for errors caused by robots.


• Cross-border complications in regulatory compliance for medical robot deployment.

1. Regulatory Hurdles:

• Variability in certification standards across regions.


• Limited guidelines for testing and validating AI-driven robotic systems.

While these challenges pose significant barriers, the findings suggest that a robust framework addressing safety, accountability, and inclusivity could foster trust and wider adoption of medical robots.

Research Implications

The study underscores the need for interdisciplinary research on:

• Ethical frameworks for algorithmic transparency.


• Standardized global regulations for medical robot certification.


• Longitudinal studies on the societal impact of medical robots.

Practical Implications

Healthcare providers and policymakers can use these findings to:

• Develop training modules for clinicians on safely integrating medical robots.


• Advocate for uniform international regulatory standards.


• Promote public awareness about the benefits and limitations of medical robots.

Social Implications

The deployment of medical robots has potential societal benefits, including improved access to high-quality care and efficiency in underserved areas. However, addressing disparities in access to these technologies is critical to ensuring equitable healthcare outcomes. Ethical and legal safeguards are essential to maintain trust in technology-driven healthcare.

Originality/Value

This study uniquely integrates ethical, legal, and regulatory perspectives, providing a holistic understanding of the challenges in deploying medical robots. It offers actionable insights for stakeholders across healthcare, technology, and policy domains, emphasizing sustainable and responsible adoption of medical robotics.