HIMSS Updates AI Public Policy Principles to Guide Responsible AI Deployment in Healthcare

In a significant move to ensure the responsible governance and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in healthcare, the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) has revised its Public Policy Principles. These updated guidelines are designed to foster trust and advancement in AI technologies, emphasizing critical aspects such as safety, accountability, transparency, privacy, interoperability, innovation, and workforce development.

The Need for Responsible Governance

Tom Leary, HIMSS senior vice president and head of government relations, highlighted the rapid evolution of AI technology, noting that it changes “weekly, daily, and even hourly.” He stressed the importance of responsible governance, stating, “AI and ML are critical tools for digital health transformation, and national, regional, and community leaders — along with tech companies and healthcare organizations — all have a duty to embrace innovation while also ensuring equity, safety, privacy, interoperability, and workforce sustainability.”

Global Framework for Policy Development

The revised principles aim to equip governments worldwide with the tools needed to support rapid innovation and address the complexities of health and delivery systems. These principles serve as a comprehensive framework for policy development and analysis across all health domains, ensuring that AI governance and deployment benefit stakeholders in the health and human services sector. Additionally, the principles underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and revalidation of AI systems post-deployment.

Key Areas of Focus

1. Safety and Accountability: Ensuring AI systems are safe and reliable, with clear accountability mechanisms in place.
2. Transparency and Privacy: Promoting transparency in AI operations while safeguarding patient privacy.
3. Interoperability: Facilitating seamless integration of AI systems across different healthcare platforms.
4. Innovation and Workforce Development: Encouraging innovation in AI while also focusing on developing a skilled workforce to manage and operate these technologies.

Upcoming Forum

HIMSS will delve deeper into these revised principles during the AI In Healthcare Forum, scheduled for September 5-6 in Boston. This event will bring together leaders from various sectors to discuss the implementation and impact of these guidelines.

Conclusion

HIMSS’s initiative is a pivotal step towards ensuring that AI and ML technologies are implemented responsibly and effectively in healthcare. By promoting trust and advancing the field while safeguarding essential values and principles, these updated Public Policy Principles are set to play a crucial role in the future of digital health transformation.

For more information, visit HIMSS AI Public Policy Principles.