Generative AI in MedTech

The remarkable advancement in the field of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a far-reaching impact on Medical Technology (MedTech).

Generative AI refers to the application of artificial intelligence to create, or assist in the creation of designs based on input criteria and constraints to revolutionize the creation of medical devices.

AI allows MedTech leaders to adapt designs to specific patient needs and complex medical requirements accelerating the development process. Helping not only patients but also healthcare professionals.

Access to innovative Medical Technologies is greatly influenced by regulatory & compliance mazes, but it's also crucial to consider protecting inventors' rights through Intellectual Property to keep pushing the wheel of innovation.

How does Generative AI impact a MedTech company’s portfolio?

The use of generative AI in designing a new generation of Medical devices raises important questions and challenges regarding IPR and who owns such innovative devices, for example:

• Can designs that were generated using AI be patented?
• What is the IP difference between AI-assisted designs, i.e., designed by a human and refined by an AI, and AI-generated designs?
• What if the inventor was not a human?
• Who owns the data used to train the AI systems?

It’s very challenging to determine the rightful owner as you see!

In some cases, the data used may contain copyrighted or proprietary information, which raises concerns about the potential infringement of existing intellectual property rights.

This is one of the most debated issues around the world that I have ever heard of, as It ignited the global debate on the rights of AI entities and the future of IP law.

AI and MedTech – what’s next?

The intersection of generative AI and medical device design brings complex challenges related to intellectual property rights, especially when considered within the context of fully AI-generated designs.

The effect of AI on the MedTech space is already clear. The use of this technology brings in a new era of innovation in MedTech and offers tremendous potential to personalize medicine and reduce complications from medical procedures.

Recognizing such impact, required united action to support AI in achieving its full potential to promote patient’s best interests. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) recently launched the Global Initiative on AI for Health initiative with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Unlocking this new tool gives us the potential to enhance patient care and outcomes around the world while maintaining our human touch amidst digital transformation.

See you in the next edition!

Arar Notes is Bayan A. Arar newsletter issued monthly with the latest updates across HealthCare & Life Sciences. Read about this month’s insights and subscribe to get monthly updates on the latest in global health, Life Sciences, wellness, and more.