Ethical and Regulatory Challenges of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: A Chinese Perspective

ABSTRACT Aim To provide practical insights that delve into the ethical issues and regulatory implications of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in healthcare. Ethical Challenges and Regulatory Impact in China is used as an example. Background Despite China's efforts to strike a delicate balance between protecting public welfare and promoting technological advancement, numerous unresolved issues persist in the practical integration of generative artificial intelligence into healthcare settings. Conclusion Key issues such as data application, privacy protection, cost‐effectiveness and regulatory remain areas of ambiguity that require clarification. Stringent ethical guidelines, data privacy protection measures and continuous supervision and evaluation of artificial intelligence decisions will help enhance the expected benefits of GenAI in healthcare. Relevance to Clinical Practice The potential use of GenAI in healthcare has garnered widespread attention, emerging as a significant global research topic. However, its application in this domain presents substantial ethical and regulatory challenges. Compared to other fields, GenAI's role in healthcare is more sensitive and complex, necessitating an urgent assessment of its ethical implications for future development and deployment. Challenges and ethical considerations are particularly pronounced in developing countries with limited healthcare resources.