Artificial intelligence in medical OSCEs: Reflections and future developments

Abstract

With the advent of the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), we seek to consider how AI could shape clinical examinations, specifically Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs). OSCEs, whilst having its own limitations, could be further enhanced with new technologies like AI to help better assess and prepare our future clinicians. With the everchanging requirements on the modern clinician, we deliberate the strengths and weaknesses of AI, and the need for emphasis on different skills to complement rather than resist the tides of change. In conclusion, we feel that AI has the potential to be a strong driving force in remodelling OSCEs to support future doctors and could serve as a new frontier in medical education and beyond. That being said, we recognize the technology and its applications are still in its infancy, and further study will be needed to eluciate the role of AI in medical education and in the greater landscape of medical practice.