What is artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer-based systems that use data to generate outputs such as predictions, recommendations, content, or decisions.
AI is increasingly being used in healthcare to support improvements in a range of outcomes, including quality of care, patient experience and system efficiency.
However, AI also introduces risks that must be actively managed, including:
- Inaccurate or biased results
- Privacy and security concerns
- Reduced transparency in decision-making.
AI must be used with appropriate oversight to ensure it is safe, effective and appropriate for its intended use.
The department’s role
The Victorian Department of Health has a stewardship role in ensuring that AI is used safely and effectively across Victorian public health services.
The department sets statewide requirements and guidance to support beneficial use of AI and to manage risks to patients, health services, staff and the wider public.
This includes working with health services, expert stakeholders and regulators, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to support safe, consistent and compliant use of AI.
Guidance for safe and effective use of artificial intelligence
To support the safe and effective use of AI in Victorian public health services, the department has developed a set of documents outlining:
- The requirements that must be met before AI can be used
- How AI should be governed based on risk
- What to do if an issue arises as a result of using AI
Standards for the use of AI in Victorian Public Health Services
Defines the minimum safety, ethical, and regulatory requirements that must be met before AI can be used in a Victorian public health service.
Governance Models for AI Solutions in Victorian Public Health Services
Outlines how AI solutions should be governed within health services using a proportionate, risk-based approach.
Roles, Responsibilities and Escalation Pathways for AI in Victorian Public Health Services
Clarifies accountabilities for AI use and when and how AI related issues must be escalated beyond the health service to the department, regulators, or other authorities.
Special use cases of artificial intelligence
The Department provides additional guidance for specific AI use cases that:
- Involve higher levels of risk or uncertainty
- Are widely used across health services
- Require additional controls to operate safely and effectively
This guidance will be expanded over time as new use cases emerge.
Ambient AI Scribes
Guidance on the use of AI scribes to support clinical documentation, including considerations for privacy, accuracy and clinical safety.
Updated