The Ghana Association of Radiologists (GAR) has warned healthcare providers and diagnostic centres against the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to independently issue radiology reports, stating that such outputs will not be legally recognised as clinical clinical practice in Ghana unless authorised by licensed medical practitioners.
The position signals a growing regulatory concern for hospitals, diagnostic imaging centres and health-tech companies exploring the integration of AI into healthcare delivery.
According to the Ghana Association of Radiologists, and as reported by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), radiological image interpretation and reporting remain the responsibility of appropriately trained and duly licensed medical practitioners.
In a communiqué issued at its 14th Annual General and Scientific Meeting, GAR cautioned diagnostic facilities currently relying on unsupervised AI-generated radiology reports to immediately halt the practice or face potential legal and regulatory consequences.
The statement was jointly signed by ACP Dr. Francis Ofei, President of GAR, and Dr. Cathy Gyamfua A. Larbi, Secretary of the Association.
GAR stressed that while artificial intelligence presents opportunities for efficiency in healthcare delivery, its use must not compromise patient safety, confidentiality, professional accountability, and regulatory compliance.
The conference, held under the theme “From Kidneys to Urethra: Imaging the Genitourinary Tract in the Era of Multidisciplinary Care,” also called for stronger oversight within Ghana’s radiology and diagnostic imaging sector.
Participants reaffirmed the central role of radiology in modern healthcare delivery, noting that radiologists are specialist medical doctors trained to interpret a wide range of medical imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, mammography, fluoroscopy and interventional procedures.
The meeting further emphasised the need for structured multidisciplinary collaboration among radiologists, nephrologists, urologists, oncologists, surgeons and other healthcare professionals in managing genitourinary diseases.
It also recommended the establishment of formal multidisciplinary team meetings across tertiary healthcare institutions, alongside the development of Ghana-specific imaging and clinical protocols.
Beyond clinical issues, the Association raised concerns over environmental pollution linked to illegal mining activities, warning that contamination of major water bodies with mercury, cyanide and other toxic heavy metals could have long-term consequences for kidney health and public health.
Rivers including the Pra, Birim, Ankobra and Offin were cited as being heavily affected, potentially exposing millions of people to health risks.
GAR called on government and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to curb illegal mining, protect water bodies, and support scientific research into kidney disease in Ghana.
The Association also encouraged the public to undertake regular medical check-ups and health screening for early detection and prevention of disease.
