A new Australian digital health standards body has begun operations, aiming to assess the safety and quality of artificial intelligence (AI) technology that’s not captured by medical advice regulations.
Digital Health Standards Council of Australasia (DHSCA) Chief Executive Chris Boyd-Skinner, said that while the Therapeutic Goods Administration regulates medical devices, “most of the AI turning up in Australian health services isn’t classed as a medical device… so health services are left to work it out themselves, one procurement at a time”.
He said DHSCA is already working with health services, technology developers, and peak bodies, with current engagements spanning Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, Primary Care Networks, and private hospital groups on their AI governance.
“Developers have wanted a way to show a product is safe, and… I hear time and again how buyers want something independent to point to. Neither side has had a straightforward path, so everything we’re working towards over the next 12 months is aimed at closing that gap.”
Developers have wanted a way to show a product is safe, and… I hear time and again how buyers want something independent to point to.
DHSCA started operations in August.
Organisations can register their interest via: contact@dhsca.com.au.
