After nearly two decades of diagnosing patients, Dubai-based pulmonologist Dr. Mohammed Fawzi Katranji faced a shocking moment of truth: Artificial intelligence can actually do its job faster, maybe even better. In a recent Instagram video, the critical care and sleep medicine specialist revealed how an AI analyzed a chest X-ray in seconds and diagnosed him with pneumonia with terrifying accuracy.

A Lighthearted Joke with a Serious Undertone

While his McDonald’s comment was clearly tongue-in-cheek, Dr. Katranji’s video brought to light the very real tension between human expertise and advancing technology. "Now, here comes AI, and it points it out in a second. So, you don't need professional eyes to look at these X-rays; you just used artificial intelligence. So, I am going to be applying to McDonald's soon, and I hope they have some openings," he remarked.

 As he demonstrated on screen, the AI ​​tool identified the same lung irregularities he had identified, and even flagged an area he had initially missed.

A study published in The Lancet Digital Health (2020) found AI algorithms correctly detected diseases from medical imaging (e.g., chest X-rays, mammograms) with 87% accuracy, comparable to experienced radiologists.

Indian startup Qure.ai developed an AI model that interprets chest X-rays and head CT scans. It’s now used in over 20 countries.

Embrace change, don’t fear it.

Despite initial shock, Dr. Katarnji recognized the value AI brings to healthcare. Rather than seeing it as a replacement, he developed it as an enhancement.

 "It’s not easy realising your skills need to evolve. AI is coming. I have to admit: AI helped find the diagnosis here," he wrote.

In the comments, many doctors and tech enthusiasts echoed his sentiments. “AI won’t replace you, it will empower you to treat more patients more effectively,” wrote one user. Another was more critical, noting, “A good radiologist will still review AI input, not blindly trust it.”

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal Arshad/MSM)