Put patients at the centre of medical AI governance

AI Insight

This Nature article advocates for restructuring medical artificial intelligence governance frameworks to prioritize patient involvement and perspectives. The authors argue that current AI regulatory systems in healthcare are predominantly shaped by technical experts, clinicians, and industry stakeholders, while patients—the primary end-users affected by these technologies—remain underrepresented in decision-making processes. The article calls for establishing formal mechanisms that ensure patients have meaningful input in the development, deployment, and oversight of medical AI systems.

Why it matters

Patient-centered governance could improve the clinical relevance, safety, and acceptance of medical AI tools by incorporating real-world user needs and concerns. This approach may help address issues of algorithmic bias, data privacy, and ensure AI applications align with patient values and healthcare outcomes that matter most to those receiving care.