Gen AI – Generative Artificial Intelligence – represents a significant shift from traditional AI. Unlike conventional AI, which primarily analyzes data and makes decisions based on predefined rules, Gen AI can generate new content, such as coherent texts and realistic images, mimicking human creativity and reasoning.
In medical sciences, Gen AI is transforming healthcare by enhancing diagnostics, developing personalized treatment plans, and improving patient services. In pharmaceutical sciences, it accelerates drug discovery, optimizing research processes and expanding treatment possibilities.
Challenges and Regulatory Landscape
While Gen AI is already supporting physicians in numerous ways, legislation struggles to keep pace with technological advancements. The EU AI Act, adopted in March 2024, marks an important step toward regulation, but medical responsibility remains with physicians, who must ultimately approve AI-generated recommendations. The harmonization of standards across the EU is essential to ensure that AI-driven solutions are validated and safely implemented. A responsible approach is necessary—one that prioritizes not only technological advancement but also safety, transparency, and ethical integrity. Trust in AI across all stakeholders—from patients and medical staff to healthcare payers—is crucial for widespread adoption.
Applications in Medical Imaging and Pharmaceuticals
Currently, Gen AI plays a pivotal role in medical imaging, aiding radiologists in analyzing X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans for faster and more precise diagnoses. In Poland, AI is already used by:
- 16.7% of healthcare providers for clinical decision support,
- 11.8% in CT scan analysis,
- 10.5% in MRI diagnostics.
In pharmaceutical research, AI is revolutionizing drug discovery by:
- Designing new molecular structures,
- Repurposing existing drugs,
- Enhancing drug formulations,
- Predicting drug interactions,
- Optimizing clinical trials.
AI-driven models contribute to safer and more effective treatments, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes.
Market Growth and Future Outlook
In 2022, the global healthcare Gen AI market was valued at $1.07 billion and is projected to exceed $21.74 billion by 2032. This rapid growth reflects AI’s increasing capability to analyze vast datasets, learn patterns, and generate insights.
Generative AI marks the next technological leap—one that demands not only legislative adaptation but also readiness from patients, medical professionals, and the healthcare ecosystem as a whole.