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Global Trends External resources detailing how artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare systems around the world
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Understanding AI in Healthcare
Practical resources to navigate artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.
This is your place for insights, tools and guidance to better understand and use artificial intelligence in your clinical practice.
You can learn about your responsibilities and obligations when using AI tools, as well as the specifically medico-legal considerations and obligations of new technology.
Artificial intelligence in healthcare is always evolving. This information was last reviewed on (DD/MM/YYYY).
If you have questions about artificial intelligence in healthcare, you can call our medico-legal advice line on 1800 011 255 or complete our Contact Us Form. We're here to support you.
AI in clinical practice
Regulations, responsibilities and obligations for doctors selecting and using AI-enabled tools.
Responsibilities and obligations
When using AI tools, doctors are still accountable for the care they provide. Find out about your responsibilities and obligations are when using AI tools
Explore external resourcesRegulation of AI tools in Australian healthcare
- AI tools that are considered medical devices are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA)
- AI scribe tools that only generate clinical notes, summaries, or letters based on the conversation between a patient and doctor are not considered medical devices and are not currently regulated
Articles and case studies that focus on the medico-legal landscape of using AI
Risks in medical practice
AI is transforming healthcare, but there are risks, including:- Accuracy of notes
- Consent
- Security of content
- Privacy/storage
Regulatory advice
Ensure your use of AI aligns with current standards, regulations, and best practice- Key resources on your legal and professional obligations
- Links to trusted external sources for further guidance on AI in healthcare
Implementing new AI tools into your workflow
Use MDA's practical resources to implement your own AI governance policy.
Doctors are responsible for understanding the capabilities and limitations of any AI tools they use, for example, how it has been validated, regulated, and integrated into the clinic workflow. This includes:
- Meeting obligations around informed consent, privacy and data security
- Complying with relevant clinical standards, organisational policies, and regulations
If you are using or (considering using) AI tools in your practice, we recommend implementing an AI Governance Policy. A policy provides a framework that supports the legal, ethical, safe, secure and effective use of artificial intelligence.
Things you should consider when using AI in your record management:
- Your (and your staff's) comfort level with using the technology
- Recognising that is a tool to assist, not to replace your workflows
- Cost (both spent and saved)
- Security and privacy
- Reliability
Artificial intelligence basics
Resources that explain key concepts of AI, real-world applications of AI in healthcare, and common AI definitions.
What is artificial intelligence?
External resources that demystify AI
Explore resourcesHow is AI used in healthcare?
External resources on AI applications
Explore resourcesCommon terms
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI scribe tools that only generate clinical notes, summaries, or letters based on the conversation between a patient and doctor are not considered medical devices and are not currently regulated
IMPORTANT:
Information (including factual information) published or communicated by the MDA Group is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical or other professional advice.
The MDA Group does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the information contained herein is free from errors, virus, interception or interference. You should seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any information, opinions or recommendations provided.
MDA Group is not responsible for any loss suffered in connection with the use of this information. Information is only current at the date initially published.
Cases referenced or discussed by MDA Group may be based on real cases. Certain information may have been de-identified to preserve privacy and confidentiality.
