Making Visible the Expertise of Data Workers in AI-Driven Healthcare: A Call to Action

Abstract

Data constitute a crucial resource in healthcare systems increasingly reliant on digital technologies powered by artificial intelligence (AI). However, before these technologies can be used, they need to be ‘trained’ on large datasets assembled by individuals often working from home utilising their expertise to ensure that technologies work as they are designed to. Amidst recent enthusiasm for the adoption of AI in healthcare, little attention has been paid to the expertise and plight of these data workers. As I argue in this position piece, researchers have an important role to play in analysing and bringing to public attention the expertise possessed by those who curate content needed to power AI in healthcare and the affective demands and potential harms they face in undertaking this work. I discuss recent efforts to address the working conditions of data workers in general and suggest that the International Labour Organization could help develop standards, policies and programs to protect these individuals. As I conclude, making visible the expertise of data workers in healthcare will assist to both improve their lives and increase public awareness of the fact that AI would not exist without their contributions.

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