AI Note-Taking in Psychiatry Raises Data Security Concerns
Digital rights experts have expressed serious concerns over the security of patient data recorded by artificial intelligence during psychiatric sessions. The issue has come to the forefront as a Melbourne psychiatrist now refuses to accept new patients unless they consent to the use of AI-powered note-taking tools in their consultations.
The psychiatrist's policy marks a significant shift in mental health care, where AI scribes are increasingly used to transcribe and summarize sessions. While proponents argue that such tools can reduce administrative burdens and allow clinicians to focus more on patient care, critics warn that sensitive psychiatric data could be vulnerable to breaches or misuse.
“The use of AI in psychiatry introduces new risks to patient privacy,” said a digital rights advocate. “Data from therapy sessions is among the most intimate personal information, and its security must be guaranteed.”
Unintended Consequences of Social Media Ban
In related news, a study has found that Australia’s social media ban for under-16s has had unintended consequences. Half of the teenagers who were blocked reported seeing less news, raising concerns about their access to current events and civic information.
Researchers noted that the ban, intended to protect young people from online harms, may inadvertently limit their exposure to legitimate news sources. “We need to balance safety with the right to information,” one researcher commented.
Ancient Dingo Burial Sheds Light on First Nations Connection
An archaeological discovery in western New South Wales has revealed a millennium-old dingo burial site, including evidence of a feeding ritual. The find provides new insights into the deep relationship between dingoes and First Nations people.
Barkindji custodian David Doyle described the discovery as significant. “Dingoes were a companion animal right up until colonisation,” he said, highlighting the cultural importance of the canines.
World News in Brief
Pandemic Threat: The world is becoming less resilient to infectious disease outbreaks, experts warn, as Ebola cases emerge in the DRC and Uganda. The US has imposed travel screening measures after an American contracted the virus.
Middle East Crisis: Iran has proposed a new deal to end the war in the Middle East, while Donald Trump warns Tehran that “the clock is ticking.” A US court case reveals how Iran recruits agents who may not be regime supporters.
OpenAI Court Battle: A US jury ruled in favor of Sam Altman in his legal battle with Elon Musk over the founding of OpenAI, marking a victory for the AI boom leader.
Payback Time: Spain’s tax authority may owe singer Shakira over $90 million after a court ruled it wrongly imposed fines due to errors over her tax status.
Cave Divers: Rescuers found the bodies of four Italian divers deep inside an underwater cave in the Maldives, four days after they were reported missing.
In-Depth: Patrick Radden Keefe on Power and Greed
Investigative journalist Patrick Radden Keefe, author of London Falling, discusses his Australian roots and his new book, which examines a mysterious death and a family's search for truth. The book delves into themes of power and greed in London.
Not the News: Learning to Drive in Your 30s
In a personal essay, Julia Hollingsworth recounts her humiliating journey to get a driver's license in her 30s, failing four times. She reflects on the frustration of learning a skill that everyone else seems to master effortlessly.
Sports
Football: Arsenal takes on Burnley in the Premier League title hunt. Sam Kerr bids farewell to Chelsea in style after equaling the club's goalscoring record. Mohamed Salah's spiky Liverpool departure puts Arne Slot in an awkward position.
Basketball: The Detroit Pistons rue their NBA playoff exit as the Cleveland Cavaliers advance to the Conference finals.
Athletics: Eddie Nketia runs 100m in 9.74s but the Australian sprint record remains out of reach.
Golf: Aaron Rai wins the US PGA Championship, with many in golf glad to see the “nice guy” finish first.
Media Roundup
At least $57 billion worth of vital infrastructure in Victoria is at risk from more frequent natural disasters, according to ABC News. Only 3% of clothes bought in Australia are made locally, as cheap imports threaten local textile manufacturing, the Advertiser reports. Tasmania's first legal test of new rental pet laws ends in heartbreak for a tenant and her kitten, Periwinkle.
What's Happening Today
- VIC: Deputy PM Richard Marles speaks about Aukus at the Lowy Institute in Melbourne.
- NSW: Treasurer Jim Chalmers addresses the Bloomberg Forum for Investment Managers in Sydney.
- NSW: Police Association of NSW conference in Wollongong.
- VIC: Michelle Obama speaks in Melbourne promoting her latest book.
