Delegate Wilson introduces Maryland bill regulating AI use in healthcare decision making

House Bill 1240, introduced in Maryland on February 7, 2025, aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care decision-making by providers and insurance carriers. The bill, sponsored by Delegate Wilson, seeks to ensure that AI technologies are not employed solely for cost-cutting measures that could compromise patient care quality, delay treatment, or lead to coverage denials.

Key provisions of the bill include a prohibition on the use of AI designed primarily to reduce costs at the expense of patient care. Additionally, health care providers and carriers that utilize AI for decision-making will be required to publicly post key data regarding their AI-driven decisions on their websites. They will also need to undergo annual third-party audits to ensure compliance with these regulations.

The introduction of House Bill 1240 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and health care advocates. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting patients from potential harms associated with AI, particularly as its use in health care continues to grow. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential burden on health care providers and the implications for innovation in the sector.

The bill's implications extend beyond regulatory compliance; it raises significant questions about the balance between technological advancement and patient safety. Experts suggest that while AI can enhance efficiency and reduce costs, it must not come at the cost of quality care. The outcome of this legislation could set a precedent for how AI is integrated into health care systems across the country.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders are closely monitoring its progress, anticipating debates that may shape the future of AI in health care. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments before it can be voted on by the full assembly.