What's Happening?
Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into healthcare operations, offering new opportunities and raising governance questions. At the HIMSS AI in Healthcare Forum, experts emphasized the need for mature data standards and governance frameworks
that include clinical, operational, and legal stakeholders. Dan Eduardo Gonzalez, founder of ClarityRx Advisory, argues that pharmacists, with their experience in medication safety and regulatory compliance, are well-suited to contribute to AI governance. Despite the rapid adoption of AI, with 86% of healthcare organizations embedding AI into their workflows, there is a call for more inclusive governance that involves pharmacists and other clinical experts from the outset.
Why It's Important?
The integration of AI in healthcare is significant as it promises to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. However, the exclusion of pharmacists from key decision-making processes could lead to governance gaps, affecting patient safety and compliance. Pharmacists' involvement is crucial as they bring a unique perspective on balancing clinical evidence, safety, and regulatory expectations. Their participation in AI governance could ensure that technological advancements align with practical clinical needs, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes and organizational performance.
What's Next?
Healthcare organizations may need to redefine their governance structures to include pharmacists and other clinical experts earlier in the AI development process. This could involve creating clear expectations for clinical involvement and fostering collaboration between clinicians and engineers. By doing so, organizations can address potential challenges before they arise, ensuring that AI technologies are effectively integrated into clinical practice.
