Plenary Session | The Artificial Illusion: Safeguarding Cognitive Health and Clinical Truth in the Age of AI
Scott Ramey is the Assistant Chief of Research and Development with Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency and a doctoral researcher in Systems Design Engineering – Human Factors at the University of Waterloo. With over three decades of experience in emergency services, including operational leadership, clinical practice as a Critical Care Paramedic, and system‑level quality improvement, his work focuses on AI‑human teaming, cognitive engineering, and the evaluation of emerging technologies in high‑consequence environments. He leads a multi‑year research program examining how artificial intelligence influences clinician performance, professional autonomy, and the integrity of clinical documentation in paramedicine. Scott also serves on the IWK Health Board’s Patient Safety and Quality of Care Committee and the Board of Directors for MedicAlert Foundation Canada.
As artificial intelligence rapidly expands within Canadian paramedicine, its promise of enhanced prediction, efficiency, and operational clarity is undeniable. Yet these advancements bring new challenges that directly affect frontline clinicians. This session examines the unintended cognitive, cultural, and clinical consequences of AI when systems are designed for efficiency rather than human performance.
Key themes include the rising risk of data‑driven cognitive overload and the emerging influence of AI‑shaped clinical documentation, which may unintentionally alter how events are recorded and understood. Drawing on research from Systems Design Engineering and the multi‑year AI‑ERADS project, this presentation highlights practical strategies for implementing technology that protects cognitive health, preserves clinical truth, and upholds professional autonomy.
Ideal for leaders navigating the intersection of innovation, workforce well‑being, and ethical data stewardship.
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