What is AI actually doing in Indian hospitals right now? AI is being used for reading X-rays, CT scans, and retinal images. Google's ARDA tool is already deployed in primary care clinics across India and Thailand to detect diabetic retinopathy — without needing an ophthalmologist on site. AI flags abnormal ECGs, spots early cancer markers in pathology slides, and assists with clinical documentation to cut paperwork time. Did NMC say anything about AI for doctors? Yes. In December 2025, NBEMS launched a free AI course for doctors to build skills in AI-driven diagnostics and personalised treatment. NMC also officially warned against over-dependency on AI — clinical judgment stays your responsibility. NMC Chair Dr. Abhijat Sheth also announced clinical research will be integrated into the medical curriculum going forward. Does AI replace the doctor? No. AI handles pattern recognition at scale — it processes thousands of scans in the time you see one patient. But diagnosis, treatment decisions, and patient communication stay with you. Think of it as a second pair of eyes that never sleeps and never forgets a data point. What is 'shadow AI' and why should doctors care? Shadow AI means using AI tools outside your hospital's official systems — like typing patient details into a public chatbot. It's a data privacy and liability risk. In 2026, hospitals are tightening governance around AI use. If you're using an AI tool at work, check whether it's approved by your institution. Should I do the free NBEMS AI course? Yes. It's free, it's from a credible body, and AI literacy is becoming a baseline skill in medicine. Even if you never run an algorithm yourself, understanding what AI can and cannot do will help you make better decisions about diagnostic tools your patients bring to you.