Choosing Between “Augmented Intelligence” and “Artificial Intelligence” for My Custom GPTs

1. Conceptual Distinction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) traditionally refers to technologies that simulate or replicate human cognitive functions, such as reasoning, learning, and problem-solving. The term often evokes autonomy and replacement of human roles.
Augmented Intelligence (AuI) emphasizes collaboration between human expertise and machine support. It reframes AI as a partner enhancing human decision-making rather than replacing it. Many in medicine, especially within the AMA, AAP, and NAM, now favor “Augmented Intelligence” for clinical applications to convey alignment with professional judgment, ethics, and patient-centered care.

2. Professional Context in Medicine

  • Artificial Intelligence remains appropriate when discussing technical systems, algorithms, or model design (e.g., “the GPT uses artificial intelligence to analyze pediatric data”).

  • Augmented Intelligence is preferred in clinical and educational discussions where the focus is on enhancing human expertise (e.g., “our custom GPTs serve as augmented intelligence tools to support pediatricians and families”).

  • The American Medical Association (AMA) and National Academy of Medicine (NAM) use Augmented Intelligence in most policy statements to underscore the physician’s continued authority and responsibility.

Augmented Intelligence in My Pediatric Practice

Augmented Intelligence represents a collaborative approach to technology in medicine, emphasizing partnership rather than replacement. My custom GPTs use artificial intelligence methods, yet they are intentionally designed as augmented intelligence tools to enhance, not substitute, the expertise of pediatricians and the judgment of families. These systems support informed decision-making, streamline access to trusted information, and promote safer, more efficient care. By framing these tools as augmented rather than artificial, we highlight their purpose: to strengthen human insight, uphold ethical responsibility, and preserve the compassionate core of pediatric practice.