Between algorithms and humanization

Abstract

Patent mapping is a strategic tool for supporting decision-making within health systems and identifying emerging technological trajectories. In oncology, the growing demand for palliative care, coupled with rising treatment costs, has intensified interest in artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions. This study reviewed patents published during the preceding five-year period to characterize AI-related technological trends in oncology, with particular emphasis on their clinical applications and economic implications. Patent searches were conducted in the databases of the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property, Espacenet, and the World Intellectual Property Organization between September and December 2025, using the search terms “Palliative Care” and “Cancer,” together with the International Patent Classification code G16H10/60. Of the 251 patents initially identified, 19 met the predefined eligibility criteria. The protected technologies included risk prediction models, clinical decision support systems, symptom-monitoring platforms, and natural language processing tools. These innovations were designed to improve prognostic accuracy, facilitate referrals to palliative care services, and optimize the allocation of healthcare resources. Overall, AI emerged as a key driver of innovation in oncological palliative care.