Algorithmic Bioethics and Socio-Health Communication: Perceptions and Ethical Challenges in Latin American Digital Community Health

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35669/rcys.2026.16.e399

Keywords:

algorithmic bioethics, socio-health communication, artificial intelligence, digital health, community participation, Latin America

Abstract

Introduction: The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has transformed not only clinical processes but also communication among professionals, institutions, and communities. Driven by the digital transformation of health systems, this process raises pressing questions about equity, autonomy, and social justice in community health. This study examines the bioethical and communicative challenges arising from the incorporation of algorithmic systems in Latin American community health initiatives, from the perspective of socio-health communication. Methodology: Using a qualitative and exploratory approach, the research combines documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews with fifteen healthcare professionals and community leaders selected through purposive sampling in Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil. Results: The analysis reveals tensions between technological trust, patient autonomy, and communicative gaps that constrain citizen participation. Discussion: The study proposes a framework of participatory algorithmic bioethics that integrates transparency, equity, and deliberation into digital health practices. Conclusions: Underscoring that socio-health communication is a fundamental ethical dimension for humanizing technological innovation and ensuring inclusive digital health governance.

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Author Biographies

Alma Delia Zamorano-Rojas, Universidad Panamericana

Ph.D. in Political and Social Sciences, with a specialization in Communication, from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. She is a full-time professor and researcher at the Universidad Panamericana. Her teaching and research focus on the social sciences and the humanities, with a particular emphasis on the study of audiovisual culture and film. She has delivered lectures at national and international events.

María del Carmen Camacho-Gómez, Universidad Panamericana

Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from the Complutense University of Madrid, a Master’s degree in Education and a specialization in Anthropology from the Universidad Panamericana, and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from the Intercontinental University. She has over fifteen years of experience as a scriptwriter and coordinator of audiovisual programs and has collaborated with the BBC (London) and NHK (Japan).

Claudia Ivett Romero-Delgado, Universidad Panamericana

Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from the Complutense University of Madrid. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Journalism from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She also holds a Master’s degree in Institutional Communication and a specialization in Anthropology from the Panamerican University. She is the Director of the Academy of Communication Research and a full-time professor and researcher. Her research interests include social responsibility, sustainability, corporate reputation, and the media.

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Published

2026-06-01

How to Cite

Zamorano-Rojas, A. D., Camacho-Gómez, M. del C., & Romero-Delgado, C. I. (2026). Algorithmic Bioethics and Socio-Health Communication: Perceptions and Ethical Challenges in Latin American Digital Community Health. Revista De Comunicación Y Salud, 16, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.35669/rcys.2026.16.e399

Issue

Section

Research article