Turkish Deputy Minister: AI may soon automate some medical procedures

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is becoming a reality and may soon automate many functions currently performed by doctors, Türkiye's Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Security, Lutfihak Alpkan, said, Report informs.

Alpkan made this statement during the opening session of the event titled "Innovative Labor and Employment Strategies in a Changing World of Work: Global Challenges – National Solutions."

He noted that if AI fully replaces doctors, it could lead to unemployment among qualified professionals: "However, positioning technology as a smart tool working alongside physicians can both strengthen healthcare and preserve jobs. Addressing these issues requires action at the state level. Medical AI must operate under human supervision, with results recorded and transparency ensured."

Alpkan emphasized the need for retraining and financial support programs for medical professionals who lose their jobs or whose roles may change. He added that AI in healthcare and digital services could create new roles such as patient navigators, data custodians, and medical analysts.

The deputy minister also highlighted the importance of preserving humanistic skills in medical education and noted that courses in philosophy, medical history, ethics, and communication should remain part of university curricula:

"Students must be equipped with knowledge of AI principles, risks, legal and ethical frameworks, and digital security. Simulation centers should be expanded so students can learn to make decisions alongside AI in virtual hospital settings before treating real patients. Existing doctors should be offered micro-certifications and short courses to help them adapt to new roles."

"Experts believe AI in medicine is inevitable," Alpkan concluded. "But if managed properly, it won't displace doctors-it will reduce their workload, make healthcare more accessible, and create new professions."