The Trump administration is creating an FDA fast track for digital health technologies, including AI chatbots. This initiative aims to allow AI to diagnose illnesses and prescribe medication with minimal human oversight.
Officials are modeling a regulatory pathway for independent AI doctors after the framework used for self-driving cars. The strategy seeks to mitigate a national shortage of medical professionals.
Current projects include a Utah pilot program for AI-managed prescription refills and over $50 million in research grants for conversational AI in cardiovascular care.
The push faces opposition from physicians who warn of potential misdiagnoses and the erosion of clinical judgment.