Van Kolfschooten examined how patient rights are protected in the face of fast-developing AI technologies in healthcare. In her dissertation, she argued that amid the current hype surrounding AI in healthcare, the patient is no longer at the center of attention. She highlighted the risks of a technology-driven approach in which the patient may be overlooked and advocated for greater awareness and regulation. 

She pointed out that while the current European AI Act sets rules for AI, there is still little specific legislation aimed at protecting patient rights. In her dissertation, she therefore called for a European charter on patient rights in the context of AI to ensure patient protection across all member states. 

With her defense, Van Kolfschooten concluded a research trajectory that not only addressed legal questions but also considered broader ethical and societal implications of AI in healthcare. The PhD ceremony took place on March 6, 2025, at the Agnietenkapel in Amsterdam and was available for live streaming online.