Utah allows AI to autonomously prescribe medication refills (arstechnica.com)

Utah has launched a pilot program allowing AI to autonomously prescribe medication refills, raising both innovation and safety concerns. Under the state’s regulatory sandbox framework, the initiative involves a partnership with Doctronic, a telehealth startup that employs an AI chatbot to handle patient interactions. Patients first consult with the AI for free and can then book a virtual appointment with a licensed physician for $39. The chatbot, after verifying state residency and reviewing a patient's prescription history, can refill prescribed medications without direct human oversight for a $4 fee. This development is significant for the AI and healthcare sectors as it represents a bold step towards integrating AI into medical practices, potentially streamlining access to care. According to a preliminary study cited by Doctronic, the AI's diagnostic accuracy matched human clinicians in 81% of cases, with treatment plans aligning 99% of the time. However, the approach has drawn criticism from public advocates who label it "dangerous," particularly due to the limited oversight and the exclusions of certain medications, such as those for pain and ADHD. As AI systems begin to impact patient care directly, this initiative sparks crucial discussions about the balance between innovative healthcare solutions and patient safety.