The Rise of AI in Medicine: A Pulmonologist’s Perspective
A Surprising Admission
On May 21, 2025, Dr. Mohammad Fawzi Katranji, a seasoned pulmonologist based in Dubai, shared a thought-provoking revelation on his Instagram. After utilizing an artificial intelligence tool to analyze patient X-rays, he expressed genuine concern that AI might one day replace his professional role. His humorous take on the situation, suggesting he might end up applying for a job at McDonald’s, highlighted the anxieties many in the healthcare field are feeling amidst the rapid advancements of technology.
The AI Experience
Dr. Katranji has spent 18 years honing his skills in critical care and sleep medicine. His expertise allows him to identify conditions, such as pneumonia, through careful examination of X-rays. In his video, he narrated how he reviewed an X-ray, confidently identifying areas indicating infection. However, what followed was enlightening—AI made the same deductions in mere seconds.
“I am about to lose my job. This is scary because I developed a skill over 20 years, which lets me look at an X-ray and point to pneumonia," he remarked, emphasizing the unsettling precision of AI in medical diagnostics.
Speed vs. Expertise
Dr. Katranji demonstrated the technology’s efficiency by flipping his screen to reveal highlighted areas on the X-ray that indicated pneumonia. In stark contrast to traditional methods, AI not only matched his analysis but did so at lightning speed.
"Now, here comes AI," he mused. "It points it out in a second. So, you don’t need professional eyes to look at these X-rays; you just use artificial intelligence." This revelation is a testament to how quickly AI can analyze data, raising questions about the future roles of professionals like Dr. Katranji.
A Mixed Reaction
Interestingly, while Dr. Katranji’s video garnered attention for its humor and candidness, it also sparked discussions among viewers, including fellow doctors and AI enthusiasts. Comments varied, with some asserting that AI should be seen as a tool to enhance a physician’s capabilities rather than a competitor for their job. One user even emphasized that AI would allow doctors to devote more time to patient care.
However, critics pointed out that while AI can detect abnormalities, it may lack the nuanced understanding that trained professionals bring to treatment decisions. As one commenter remarked, the integration of AI could lead to misunderstandings regarding its role in diagnostics, especially among those unfamiliar with its capabilities.
The Upside of AI in Healthcare
Despite his initial concerns, Dr. Katranji acknowledged that AI has potential benefits. In one instance, the AI tool detected an irregularity in a patient’s X-ray that he had overlooked. After prescribing treatment based on the AI’s findings, the patient experienced improvement, leading Dr. Katranji to recognize that this technology can complement his expertise.
“It’s not easy realizing your skills need to evolve. AI is coming. I have to admit: AI helped find the diagnosis here,” he stated, showcasing a balanced perspective on the matter.
Embracing Change
Dr. Katranji’s reflections serve as a reminder of the shifting landscape in healthcare, where traditional practices intersect with cutting-edge technology. His narrative illustrates a crucial pivot point in medicine—one that feels both exciting and daunting. As the sector continues to evolve, professionals must adapt, embracing tools like AI to enhance their practice rather than viewing them solely as threats.
The video and its accompanying discussions reveal an urgent need for ongoing dialogue about the integration of AI in medical settings, the role of human expertise, and how both can coexist to improve patient care.
As technology progresses, the medical field finds itself at a crossroads, welcoming innovations while simultaneously grappling with the implications of such rapid change.
