Healthcare professionals require a clearer understanding of their responsibilities regarding artificial intelligence (AI) usage, according to a recent governmental report.
The document, titled ‘National Commission into the Regulation of AI in Healthcare: Recommendations for a Future Regulatory Framework’, was released on September 10, 2026. It advocates for regulatory measures that mandate standards or oversight for devices that present a significant risk to patients.
The report highlights current negligence claim patterns, suggesting that healthcare professionals and providers are more frequently targeted due to their defined duty of care. It warns that accountability for mistakes might fall on these professionals without adequately acknowledging the role of AI systems and the broader design of healthcare systems.
Mark DasGupta, who oversees professional development at the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA), pointed out that many of the issues raised in the National Commission’s report align with previously identified concerns in their guidance on the safe and effective implementation of AI in pharmacy practice, released in August 2026.
He noted that as AI becomes more embedded within healthcare and pharmacy operations, there is an increasing need to address accountability, responsibility, and liability. While pharmacists acknowledge that AI can affect decision-making, there remains uncertainty about how responsibility is distributed among healthcare professionals, employers, organizations that implement AI, and developers.
“One significant concern for the PDA is that pharmacists might still be held professionally accountable for decisions influenced by AI systems, even when they have limited insight or control over those systems,” DasGupta explained.
He added that a unified approach to enhance professional capability would be advantageous in establishing consistent standards and understanding across various healthcare professions. This initiative should support rather than replace existing profession-focused guidelines and training.
The report's Recommendation 32 calls for a collaborative approach involving stakeholders such as the Department of Health and Social Care, regulatory bodies, and royal colleges to advance AI integration in healthcare. This inclusive strategy should encompass initial education, postgraduate training, and ongoing professional development. It also advises that contracts between AI manufacturers and healthcare providers should explicitly define the allocation of responsibilities for risk management.
Tase Oputu, president of the Royal College of Pharmacy, emphasized the necessity for clear accountability among developers, suppliers, commissioners, healthcare providers, and professionals. He stated that while pharmacy professionals should be responsible for decisions within their control, risk responsibilities—like those stemming from product defects or organizational failures—should be allocated according to who can best manage those risks throughout the AI lifecycle, rather than automatically burdening frontline clinicians.
Oputu expressed agreement on the need for practical guidance to assist healthcare professionals in comprehending their responsibilities regarding AI use. He highlighted ongoing discussions with stakeholders about these challenges during digital and AI roundtables.
Reflecting on Recommendation 32, Oputu reiterated that pharmacy professionals require appropriate education, training, and opportunities to acquire the skills necessary for safe and effective AI utilization. He added that their existing policy recognizes the value of enhancing digital and AI skills throughout the pharmacy workforce, with educational programs tailored to varying roles and levels of AI involvement.
Kathie Cashell, chief executive of the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), welcomed the findings of the report, stating that the GPhC would carefully evaluate its recommendations. She agreed on the necessity of a coordinated approach to foster professional capability for the responsible use of AI in healthcare. Moving forward, the GPhC plans to collaborate closely with other regulatory agencies and health organizations to promote safe and effective AI integration.
Recently, the GPhC has released resources concerning AI application in pharmacy practice, alongside guidance on revalidation and training. They intend to undertake additional initiatives as technology evolves, including updates to the standards applicable to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
