Opinion: AI Won't Enhance Physician Autonomy—It Will Further Diminish It

Former surgeon Frances Mei Hardin argues that artificial intelligence in healthcare serves as a mirror reflecting the ongoing erosion of physician autonomy and clinical judgment. Rather than being a villain, AI exposes systemic constraints that already limit doctors' decision-making authority in patient care. The commentary raises critical concerns about how algorithmic recommendations may further constrain physicians' ability to exercise independent medical judgment and personalized treatment decisions. This perspective is essential for patients to understand how technological integration affects the physician-patient relationship and the quality of individualized care they receive.