AI on Rotations

You may have heard AI sources, like Chat GPT, are on the rise in all aspects of our lives including pharmacy. Many of our students have used, and are using, AI in myriad ways. (Chat GPT is used as the example open AI in this post.)

What is Open AI?

• Companies like Microsoft and Google have created AI systems that aid in their search function. Others are independent of the search function, like Chat GPT.

• When used properly, AI is a great tool. Think about how a calculator aids in solving problems faster, as long as the input is correct.

• Similar to a source that provides high-level information, i.e., Wikipedia, but requires additional searching to gather details and ensure accuracy.

• Compiles significant data throughout the internet to consistently and correctly provide answers to questions asked.

• Aids in proper grammar and punctuation.

Positive uses for AI?

Writing

• Struggling to find a starting point for writing

• Re-writing in a professional tone

• Summarizing

• Translating into patient-friendly language

• CV, LOI, and/or LOR

Studying and Research

• Practice questions for exam prep

• Structure or outline for assignments or presentations

• Explaining difficult concepts

• Planning and timelines

• Starting point for research questions

How do I begin using Open AI?

• Start with a clear goal: What do you want open AI to do?

• Keep it simple: Use short, easy-to-understand sentences and questions.

• Avoid being vague: Ask specific questions and explain the context when appropriate.

• Provide examples if possible: Give Chat GPT some data to work with before asking your question.

• Example of an entry: Create a letter of intent for a pharmacist position in a community hospital.

On the other hand, there are precautions that must be taken when using open AI, especially for clinical pharmacy topics. If legal issues arise, blaming Chat GPT is not considered a valid defense.

What is so bad about using open AI?

• Uses simple language

  • Should not be used when healthcare professionals are your audience

• Information may be outdated

  • Chat GPT is current through September 2021

  • If it doesn’t know, Chat GPT might make up an answer

• Does not evaluate what is true or not!

  • Pulls whatever is published on the internet but cannot evaluate fact from fiction

What are some limitations to using open AI?

• Must be cited if used in any way, including all forms of open AI

  • APA and MLA have approved citation

  • AMA: nothing formal but recommendations available

• Cannot generate graphics

• Open AI does not have critical thinking

  • Evaluate the information provided

Here are a few suggestions to help address concerns about students using open AI inappropriately on rotation for patients and assignments.

• Discuss with your student when it is and is not appropriate to use open AI for patient care or assignments.

• Give specific, rather than general, assignments as open AI cannot speak to specific examples nor provide details.

• If appropriate, assign a question, topic, or task from sometime after September 2021; i.e., the heart failure guidelines, so students are unable to utilize open AI, but are still able to obtain current and accurate information.