Flexible Regulation: Balancing Innovation and Patient Safety in AI Health Care

AHA May 6 responded to Rep. Ami Bera’s request for information on the current state of artificial intelligence in health care by emphasizing the importance of flexible regulation that can keep pace with innovation. The organization stressed that technology should be regulated based on its specific use and application, as AI is not a one-size-fits-all technology.

A sector-specific approach to regulation has been effective in allowing oversight organizations to address the unique risks of different technologies, according to AHA. However, applying a blanket approach to AI regulation could hinder innovation in patient care and hospital operations, cautioned the organization. Instead, AHA urged Congress to consider regulating AI based on its use across different sectors, similar to how software is regulated.

Furthermore, AHA proposed adapting existing technology-focused regulatory frameworks to accommodate the unique aspects of AI. By aligning AI regulation with existing frameworks and considering its specific uses in health care, AHA believes that patient safety and privacy can be better protected while promoting innovation.