AI-assisted patient education: Challenges and solutions in pediatric kidney transplantation

Abstract

We are writing in response to the recent publication on the use of artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, in generating educational materials for pediatric kidney transplant patients (Patient Education and Counseling, Volume 129, 2024). The study offers valuable insights into AI’s potential to enhance healthcare communication and patient education, specifically by streamlining the creation of materials for caregivers, adolescents, and children facing complex medical procedures[1]. As researchers working at the intersection of healthcare and technology, we would like to offer further reflections on the study’s findings, providing both constructive feedback and innovative solutions for advancing the use of AI in this field. One of the most compelling aspects of the study is the potential for ChatGPT to revolutionize patient education by significantly reducing the time and resources needed to develop educational content. The authors demonstrated that even a free version of ChatGPT allows healthcare providers to rapidly generate materials, which is particularly advantageous for overstretched healthcare systems. Additionally, the study highlights ChatGPT’s ability to bridge communication gaps in resource-limited settings by providing patients and families with accessible, personalized information about transplant procedures. We strongly support the idea that AI-driven education can democratize access to essential health information, especially in regions where medical expertise is limited. Furthermore, AI’s real-time response capabilities could enable healthcare providers to offer more interactive and tailored education, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health.