Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of computer systems to perform tasks such as learning, reasoning and solving problems that require human intelligence. Natural intelligence (NI) in their turn encompasses ethical, emotional and cognitive competencies of human clinicians, particularly their flexibility, empathy and contextual judgement. AI and NI have emerged as a significant, complementary factor in patient outcome in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR). The applications of AI are found in many different fields, including: Real-time treatment optimisation and adaptive therapy protocols Tele-rehabilitation and monitoring of remotely to enhance accessibility Documentation and clinical decision support automation to minimise clinical burnout Individual measurement using imaging, wearable sensors and clinical data The process of medical history taking, triage, patient education and scientific research is supported by AI-based systems such as ChatGPT/GPT-4. However, there are still major obstacles, such as algorithm bias, information privacy issues, a lack of empathy and the danger of over-depending on technology. On the other hand, NI provides essential benefits in moral reasoning, innovation, socialisation and integrative goal-setting. Rehabilitation is indeed patient-centred by treating the patient in a manner that is sensitive to the slight, yet silent signals, dynamic modification of treatments and developing trusting therapeutic relationships. The present opinion paper is of the view that AI and NI will shape the future of PMR instead of replacing each other. Using NI empathy and clinical judgement and AI analytical powers and scalability, it is possible to provide personalised, ethically correct and clinically effective rehabilitation care. Strong ethical approaches, clear algorithms, multidisciplinary teamwork and continuous learning of the rehabilitation professionals are needed in this synthesis.
Badhal et al. (Mon,) studied this question.