AI a “game changer” but strong regulations are required

AMA President Professor Steve Robson highlighted the vast opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) technology at the AI in Health Readiness Forum in Sydney on Wednesday.

However, he told the forum appropriate regulation was needed to govern the use of emerging AI technology in healthcare.

Delivering a keynote address, Professor Robson said AI “has the potential to deliver dazzling innovation in healthcare in Australia and globally”.

“AI has the potential to be transformative — that game changer we talk about,” he said.

But Professor Robson warned AI could exacerbate inequities in Australia’s healthcare system without suitable regulation.

He called for measures to ensure all Australians have equal access to future AI diagnostic technology and treatment options.

“Equity of access to diagnostic services that are AI powered must be accompanied by equity of access to adequate treatment for conditions diagnosed,” Professor Robson said.

Regulation must also address issues relating to patient safety, privacy and professional autonomy.

“The question of AI ethics in medicine must be resolved before any widespread application — and any AI ethics frameworks must not be voluntary, but mandated to all those developing or implementing AI,” Professor Robson told the forum.

The event, run by Informa Australia, included speakers and panellists from across the health and technology sectors.