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Taylor MacKinnon, PharmD, MS, BCPS, is pharmacy manager of clinical and operational services at University of Michigan Health and is an adjunct clinical instructor at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy.
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Pharmacy Times
July 2024Volume90 Issue 7
Artificial Intelligence Tools Can Help Foster Leadership in Pharmacy
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Leaders Must Continue to Prioritize Empathy and Human Connection.
The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and leadership has become increasingly prominent in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.1 In 2022, the health care sector saw significant AI investments of $6.1 billion. This was followed by significant investments in data management, processing, and cloud services ($5.9 billion); financial technology ($5.5 billion); cybersecurity and data protection ($5.4 billion); and retail ($4.2 billion).2
Image Credit: Jacob Lund - stock.adobe.com
The growing attention on AI in pharmacy highlights the potential to identify both beneficial and potentially detrimental patterns within health care, particularly with the use of machine learning.3 Pharmacy leaders must pay close attention to this dynamic intersection as the health care industry’s growing reliance is unavoidable, especially within medication use processes.4 As health care organizations embrace tools to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and drive innovation, pharmacy leaders face the unique challenge of integrating these powerful tools while maintaining authenticity in their leadership roles.
Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge that technologies do not stand alone; they require careful consideration of human and procedural factors.5 Although technology can offer efficiency and objectivity, pharmacy leaders must ensure their leadership approach preserves essential human qualities, including common sense, situational awareness, context, and compassion. Striking a balance between leveraging AI for its benefits and upholding authenticity is pivotal for effective leadership in the pharmacy sector. Authenticity is a critical aspect of effective leadership, involving being true to oneself, showcasing genuine emotions, and aligning actions with values and beliefs. In today’s fast-paced world, in which technology is becoming increasingly prevalent, leaders must navigate the challenges of maintaining authenticity while leveraging these advancements for the benefit of their strategies and decision-making processes.
THE IMPACT OF AI
According to one study, AI adoption has the potential to create an additional $13 trillion in global economic activity by 2030, showcasing the immense prospects presented by these tools.6 However, this integration also poses challenges for leaders. Reliance on technology may cause leaders to become detached from the human elements of leadership. They must balance leveraging tools and maintaining their authentic leadership style.7
AI fundamentally alters traditional leadership practices, offering valuable insights, automating tasks, and enhancing productivity.8 In health care, AI has played a pivotal role in improving diagnostic accuracy and speeding up decision-making processes.9 Integrating AI technologies significantly shifts how leaders approach strategic planning, problem solving, and decision-making. AI tools save leaders time in the collection, filtering, and interpretation of data. This allows them to focus on data analysis and developing subsequent action plans.10
AI’s influence on health care leadership and decision-making will only grow. It will reshape how organizations operate and make critical choices while prioritizing patient care. This transformation underscores the urgent need for leaders to adapt and effectively utilize AI tools while preserving the essential human aspects of leadership.
BENEFITS
Embracing AI tools offers leaders myriad specific advantages, revolutionizing the way they operate and make decisions. Some examples of these advantages include the following:
- Harnessing big data: AI empowers leaders to make data-driven decisions with unprecedented accuracy and speed by leveraging system-level data from electronic health records, point of sale, and inventory management software.
- Streamlining operations: AI tools automate repetitive tasks, freeing leaders to focus on high-level strategic thinking and innovation.
- Predictive analytics: AI allows leaders to anticipate market trends, customer behavior, and potential risks, enabling proactive decision-making.
- Enhanced time management: AI tools automate data collection, analysis, and interpretation, saving leaders time that they can put toward strategic planning and decision-making.
- Improved writing: AI-powered writing assistance tools can enhance the quality, efficiency, and consistency of leaders’ written communication, improving productivity and collaboration.
To effectively navigate AI integration, leaders must actively engage in discussions, share insights, and stay informed about the evolving AI-leadership relationship. This fosters a culture of curiosity and collaboration, paving the way for a future marked by trust, innovation, and shared success. Additionally, to maximize AI benefits, leaders must prioritize data availability. Access to accurate and reliable data is crucial for informed decision-making. However, they must also be mindful of authenticity challenges that AI integration poses, such as the potential loss of emotional intelligence.
CHALLENGES
One critical challenge leaders face when embracing AI is the potential loss of human connection. AI excels at data analysis and automation but cannot replace the empathy, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills vital in leadership.1 Leaders must remain mindful of this and prioritize authentic relationships with their teams and stakeholders.
Integrating AI into leadership roles raises concerns about authenticity. Although AI streamlines decision-making and provides valuable insights, there is a risk of overshadowing the human touch that authentic leadership emphasizes. Authentic leadership is rooted in genuine relationships, self-awareness, and ethical decision-making. Overreliance on AI for crucial leadership tasks may lead to a perception of detachment and lack of empathy, potentially undermining the authenticity and trust that leaders strive to cultivate.11,12
Another challenge lies in the potential perception of AI tools as a threat to job security. Leaders must proactively address concerns or fears among team members, emphasizing that AI tools are designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them. This requires effective communication and transparency to build trust and foster a positive work environment.
Although AI offers numerous benefits, its use in leadership can inadvertently diminish the interpersonal interactions vital for building trust and empathy. Using AI for tasks such as communication, feedback analysis, and performance evaluations may reduce opportunities for the personal connections so important to authentic leadership. Additionally, reliance on AI for tasks that require emotional intelligence can hinder leaders’ development of this essential skill. To address this, health care leaders should pay special attention to preserving human connection in patient care and team collaboration, striking a balance between leveraging AI’s capabilities and preserving authentic personal connections and emotional intelligence.11,12
ACTIONABLE STRATEGIES
In this rapidly evolving landscape, there are some important, actionable strategies leaders can adopt to maintain their authenticity amid the rise of AI, as follows:
- Embrace emotional intelligence: Encourage leaders to hone their emotional intelligence because AI cannot replicate genuine human emotions and empathy. In health care leadership, this means emphasizing qualities that are crucial to patient care, such as empathy and patient-centeredness. Developing strong emotional intelligence helps leaders connect with their teams on a deeper level, fostering trust and loyalty.
- Communicate openly and transparently: Prioritize open and transparent communication to demonstrate trustworthiness and authenticity. Honestly address the role of AI within the organization and its potential impact on the workforce. This transparency can alleviate concerns and build credibility.
- Lead by example: Authentic leaders demonstrate integrity, humility, and a genuine concern for their team members. Encourage leaders to embody these qualities, which are especially important as technology advances.
- Cultivate diversity: Promote a diverse work culture that values individual strengths, creativity, and innovation. In pharmacy settings, this involves recognizing and celebrating the unique contributions of various health care professionals. Diversity helps counterbalance the potential dehumanizing effects of AI and reinforces the importance of authentic human connections.
- Stay true to core values: Encourage leaders to stay true to the organization’s core values and principles, emphasizing patient-centric aspects that define the company’s identity. Remaining committed to values that prioritize staff well-being and compassionate care helps leaders preserve their authenticity amid rapid technological change.
- Recognize contributions: Acknowledge and celebrate the unique talents and contributions of team members. Implement recognition programs or awards specific for employees who exemplify authenticity, empathy, and human connection in their interactions with patients and colleagues. This reinforces the value of authenticity and inspires others to follow suit.
By implementing these strategies, health care leaders can navigate technological advancements while maintaining their authenticity and preserving the human touch in patient care and organizational culture.
PROACTIVE EMBRACE
To effectively embrace the potential of AI, leaders must proactively adapt their practices, seamlessly integrating AI tools into existing workflows. This strategic approach ensures that AI becomes integral to leadership practices rather than a separate entity. As AI evolves, leaders must adopt a future-oriented mindset, identifying areas where AI offers the most significant value and proactively preparing for future advancements. Some strategies for this include the following:
- Embrace a continuous learning mindset: Commit to constant learning and adaptation. Attend conferences, workshops, and webinars focused on leadership in the age of AI. Subscribe to industry publications and newsletters to stay current with the latest research and insights.
- Develop AI-specific skills: Although not every leader needs to be a technical expert, having a foundational understanding of AI principles, capabilities, and limitations is crucial. Seek out training opportunities that demystify AI and provide practical knowledge for effective implementation within the health care setting.
- Foster a culture of experimentation: Encourage a safe space for testing and piloting AI tools before full-scale implementation. This controlled experimentation helps identify potential benefits and potential shortcomings, such as risks to patient data privacy, allowing for informed adjustments and better outcomes.
- Build collaborative partnerships: Seek collaboration with AI experts, tech companies, and other organizations at the forefront of AI development. These partnerships can provide valuable guidance, accelerate learning, and spark innovative solutions tailored to your organization’s needs.
- Prioritize ethical considerations: Proactive leadership requires careful consideration of the ethical implications of AI. Establish clear guidelines for responsible AI use, upholding transparency, fairness, and accountability, particularly within the health care context where patient well-being is paramount.
- Focus on human-AI collaboration: Emphasize the complementary relationship between AI and human leaders. AI tools should augment leadership abilities, not replace them. Train leaders on how to work effectively in tandem with AI, leveraging its strengths while maintaining essential human qualities for optimal outcomes.
- Seek out industry-leading AI education: Some technology companies are pioneering AI boot camps designed specifically for organizational leaders. These programs offer a deep dive into AI concepts, practical applications, and ethical considerations, empowering leaders to make informed decisions about AI integration within their organizations.13-15
By embracing these strategies, leaders can position themselves and their organizations at the forefront of AI adoption. Taking a proactive approach ensures leaders are not simply reacting to technological change but actively shaping its integration in a way that maximizes benefits, safeguards authenticity, and builds a resilient organization ready to thrive in the AI-driven future.
CONCLUSION
As AI tools advance, the future of leadership authenticity hinges on striking a delicate balance between leveraging technology and nurturing human connections. Leaders who successfully navigate this landscape will find themselves well prepared to inspire and guide their teams in the era of AI.
Although leadership authenticity remains paramount, the benefits brought by AI tools are substantial. Leaders must acknowledge and address the challenges posed to authenticity. By implementing strategies such as self-reflection, transparent communication, and seamless integration of AI into workflows, leaders can embrace technology while remaining genuine. They must ensure that technological advancements enhance patient care rather than detract from the compassionate and personalized approach that defines the health care profession, and pharmacy in particular. Organizations play a pivotal role by providing robust training and development programs that equip leaders with the necessary skills to navigate AI tools effectively.
Looking ahead, leaders and organizations must stay abreast of ongoing developments in AI and leadership. This dynamic landscape calls for continuous learning and adaptation. By actively engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and staying informed about the evolving relationship between AI and leadership, we can shape a future marked by trust, innovation, and shared success.
References
1. Execs in the Know. How work and leadership will change as AI advances. CX Insight. October 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://execsintheknow.com/magazines/october-2023-issue/how-work-and-leadership-will-change-as-ai-advances/
2. Maslej N, Fattorini L, Brynjolfsson E, et al. The AI Index 2023 Annual Report. AI Index Steering Committee, Institute for Human-Centered AI, Stanford University. April 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://aiindex.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HAI_AI-Index-Report_2023.pdf
3. Flynn A. Using artificial intelligence in health-system pharmacy practice: finding new patterns that matter. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2019;76(9):622-627. doi:10.1093/ajhp/zxz018
4. Cobaugh DJ, Thompson KK. Embracing the role of artificial intelligence in the medication-use process. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2020;77(23):1915-1916. doi:10.1093/ajhp/zxaa304
5. Nelson SD. Artificial intelligence and the future of pharmacy. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2024;81(4):83-84. doi:10.1093/ajhp/zxad316
6. Bughin J, Seong J, Manyika J, Chui M, Joshi R. Notes from the AI frontier: modeling the impact of AI on the world economy. McKinsey Global Institute. September 4, 2018. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/artificial-intelligence/notes-from-the-ai-frontier-modeling-the-impact-of-ai-on-the-world-economy
7. Hougaard R, Carter J, Stembridge R. The best leaders can’t be replaced by AI. Harvard Business Review. January 12, 2024. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://hbr.org/2024/01/the-best-leaders-cant-be-replaced-by-ai?ab=HP-hero-latest-text-1
8. Mantsch PE. The future of leadership: AI leadership vs. traditional leadership. LinkedIn. January 25, 2024. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/future-leadership-ai-vs-traditional-peter-e-mantsch-dspue/
9. Artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular medicine. Mayo Clinic. March 16, 2024. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/ai-cardiology/overview/ovc-20486648
10. McKendrick J. How generative AI could give us back at least 40% of our time. Forbes. May 24, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/sites/joemckendrick/2023/05/24/how-generative-ai-could-give-us-back-at-least-40-of-our-time/?sh=2544cf7f2efc
11. Tarasenko I. Rethinking authenticity in the AI revolution. Medium. December 15, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://medium.com/@saik0s/dissecting-authenticity-in-the-ai-era-a-disruptive-take-6c54f2f8a35a
12. IBRAHIM & Co. Valuing the human touch: AI, authenticity, and the future of original content. Medium. May 29, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://medium.com/@ibrahimandcompany/valuing-the-human-touch-ai-authenticity-and-the-future-of-original-content-7b44e9b5d66d
13. Spatacco A. This artificial intelligence (AI) company just took a page out of Palantir’s playbook. Yahoo! Finance. December 13, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/artificial-intelligence-ai-company-just-140000210.html?
14. Palantir. Deploying full spectrum AI in days: how AIP bootcamps work. Medium. October 12, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://blog.palantir.com/deploying-full-spectrum-ai-in-days-how-aip-bootcamps-work-21829ec8d560
15. Spatacco A. Palantir’s artificial intelligence (AI) strategy is genius: here’s why. The Motley Fool. October 22, 2023. Accessed June 6, 2024. https://www.fool.com/investing/2023/10/22/palantirs-artificial-intelligence-ai-strategy-is/
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During Summer Months, Counsel Patients on Preventing Lyme Disease
The Ethics and Economics of California’s End of Life Option Act
Orange Juice Can Aid Absorption of Iron
Court Upholds Hospitals’ Right to Direct Care
Stay Aware of Common High-Alert Medications
Learning the Lingo of Biologics and Biosimilars Is Critical
OTC Case Studies: Skin Care
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July 2024: Pharmacy Product News
Recap: Pharmacy Times Covers the Pharmacy Quality Alliance Annual Meeting
Pharmacy Policy, July 2024
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