AHA emphasized the importance of flexible regulation that can keep pace with innovation in response to Rep. Ami Bera’s request for information on the current state of artificial intelligence in health care. The organization highlighted that technology should be regulated based on its specific use and application, and that 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. The organization cautioned that applying a blanket approach to AI regulation could hinder innovation in patient care and hospital operations. Instead, AHA urged Congress to consider regulating AI based on its use across different sectors, similar to how software is regulated.
AHA proposed adapting existing technology-focused regulatory frameworks to accommodate the unique aspects of AI as an alternative approach to creating new regulations from scratch. 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.