In a recent discussion, Dave Bailey, vice president at Clearwater, highlighted the critical role of governance and trust frameworks in the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) within healthcare. He emphasized that the safety and accuracy of AI applications are contingent upon these frameworks, especially in clinical settings where inaccuracies can directly affect patient care.
Bailey asserted that any autonomous deployment of AI in clinical decision-making poses substantial risks. Organizations aiming to integrate AI must establish robust processes and verify the reliability of the data they utilize. A misstep in this area could have severe consequences. For example, if a nurse identifies a discrepancy in an AI-generated clinical summary in an electronic health record, it is imperative that a clear protocol is established for addressing such errors to prevent hazardous medical outcomes.
He raised an essential question about how organizations respond to detected issues. It is crucial for healthcare entities to have pre-existing plans for potential adverse events when there is doubt surrounding data validity. The implementation of AI requires not only initial governance but also ongoing risk management and oversight throughout the technology’s lifecycle.
“Asking what actions to take after the AI system has been deployed is fundamental,” Bailey stated. He pointed out that the integration of emerging technologies is necessary to monitor AI models and their performance, providing early warnings when models diverge or produce erroneous outputs.
In the interview, Bailey elaborated on several pressing issues, including the evolving threats associated with AI in healthcare. He discussed how AI could enhance cybersecurity measures while concurrently introducing significant risks. Furthermore, he underscored a range of governance and trust considerations healthcare organizations must address to harness AI effectively and safely.
Bailey’s extensive background in cybersecurity, spanning over 24 years—14 of which are dedicated specifically to healthcare—equips him with a unique perspective on these challenges. Before joining Clearwater, he served in the United States Air Force, focusing on communications and information, with leadership roles at various levels, including the Pentagon and international operations.
This discussion is particularly relevant as organizations continue to navigate the complexities of AI integration while ensuring patient safety and maintaining trust in their information systems. As the healthcare landscape evolves rapidly, the comprehensive understanding and management of risks associated with AI technology will be paramount.