WASHINGTON — A new advisory group focused on artificial intelligence in healthcare has been formed to help guide innovation initiatives, as healthcare organizations and policymakers seek to expand the use of AI while addressing concerns about safety, governance and patient care.
Several healthcare organizations announced new AI-focused advisory bodies and governance initiatives in recent weeks, reflecting growing efforts across the sector to establish expert oversight for the deployment of artificial intelligence in clinical and operational settings. The initiatives bring together physicians, technology specialists, health-system leaders and policy experts to provide recommendations on responsible adoption and implementation of AI tools. According to participating organizations, the advisory groups are intended to support innovation while maintaining patient safety and regulatory compliance.
One of the most prominent announcements came from the American Academy of Family Physicians, which launched a Primary Care Innovation Network and an advisory committee designed to help shape how AI is integrated into frontline healthcare services. The organization said family physicians should play a central role in evaluating and guiding new technologies used in patient care.
“AI is already reshaping healthcare—there’s no question about it,” said Steven Waldren, the academy’s chief medical informatics officer, in a statement announcing the initiative. He said the goal is to ensure physicians help direct the technology’s development in ways that improve care and reduce administrative burdens.
The creation of advisory groups comes amid broader efforts to establish standards for AI governance. Earlier this month, the Joint Commission announced a voluntary certification program for healthcare organizations adopting artificial intelligence, building on guidance developed with more than 20 healthcare and technology groups. The organization said the framework is intended to support safe and effective use of AI across health systems.
Federal agencies have also expanded advisory structures related to healthcare modernization. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced a Healthcare Advisory Committee earlier this year to provide recommendations on improving care delivery and strengthening the healthcare system, although the committee's mandate extends beyond artificial intelligence.
Healthcare providers, technology companies and regulators have increasingly emphasized the need for oversight as AI applications move from pilot projects into routine operations. Industry groups say key issues include transparency, data privacy, clinical validation and accountability for automated decision-making. Recent initiatives in the United States and abroad have focused on creating governance frameworks alongside technological development.
As of Monday, advisory groups and healthcare organizations were continuing work on recommendations for AI deployment, while regulators and industry leaders evaluated additional standards aimed at supporting innovation and responsible use of the technology in healthcare settings. Details on future policy actions remain unclear.
