The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is advancing its AI Airlock programme, focusing on innovative AI tools to enhance patient care. In this second phase, seven novel AI technologies are being tested, including clinical note-taking systems, advanced cancer diagnostics, and blood test interpretation tools, all aimed at regulatory approval by March 2026. Health Innovation Minister Zubir Ahmed emphasized the importance of equipping NHS staff with advanced AI solutions while transitioning from analogue to digital healthcare. This phase tackles regulatory challenges related to AI diagnostics and post-market surveillance for medical devices. Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon highlighted the need for a dedicated regulatory framework to manage the rapid evolution of AI technologies in healthcare. The initiative, which follows the successful pilot phase, will provide valuable insights to inform future MHRA strategies and recommendations for regulating AI in healthcare, paving the way for the NHS to become a leader in AI-enabled healthcare systems.
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