Machine Learning for Automated Regulatory Algorithms? Exploring the Potential of Artificial Intelligence for the Regulation of Health Care Practitioners

It has been argued as a result of recent developments in the application of artificial intelligence (A.I.), that the next miracle drug will be a computer algorithm. However, the field of healthcare regulation is one key area of modern medicine which has yet to consider what the possible impact(s) of A.I. may be. This programme of activity seeks to explore this unfolding but as yet unexplored area, by examing how A.I. could transform the current ways in which the fitness to practise of practitioners is monitored and disciplinary tribunal processes managed. It involves undertaking a series of ‘scoping workshops’ with key representatives from the regulatory, practitioner, academic, public-interest, computing and A.I. industry sectors, with the goal of finalising the content of a showcase conference to present ‘the state of the field’ in the development of A.I.in the field of healthcare, and detail ‘future visions’ concerning its possible impact in the regulatory sphere. In doing so, the project will establish a strategic network of collaborative and research partners which will live on beyond the end of its activity, as well as help to shape the ways in which A.I. might contribute to the future development of the UK regulatory landscape.