United Kingdom seeks new AI regulations for healthcare

The United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued 44 recommendations to update legislation regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in medical contexts. As AI becomes a routine part of the National Health Service (NHS), regulators are seeking to modernize frameworks that were originally designed for physical devices like hip replacements or stethoscopes.

Key proposals include the continuous monitoring of AI products, with the ability to withdraw regulatory approval if tools become less efficient or malfunction over time. The recommendations also emphasize patient rights, including the right to know when AI is involved in their care and ensuring easy access to information about the products used.

To facilitate safe implementation, experts suggest an ‘L-plate’ system for testing new AI models under close supervision by healthcare professionals. Additionally, the framework proposes potential penalties for developers whose AI products fail to meet required standards.