Abstract
<jats:p>This article analyses the issues surrounding the use of traditional auscultation as a means of primary lung diagnosis, as well as the risks associated with diagnostic mistakes. It examines the effectiveness of this clinical practice, the epidemiological characteristics of the spread of lung diseases in Ukraine, the stages of implementation, and the legislative framework for digital diagnostic tools for lung abnormalities. Calculations of the effectiveness of physical auscultation were carried out using mathematical modelling, based on a hypothetical cohort and utilising real-world values for the method’s sensitivity and specificity. The existence of the problem and the need to resolve it are substantiated. A possible solution is considered through the introduction of electronic stethoscopes with filtration systems and automated decision support systems. The consequences and challenges of introducing digital devices are analysed using the examples of Ukraine and the worldwide practices, and the prospects for further developments in this field are identified. The research results demonstrate the low diagnostic accuracy and high subjectivity of traditional auscultation, and the need to address this problem.</jats:p>