Singapore, July 10_^th, 2025: HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, today welcomes Singapore as a pioneer country joining the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network (GRN), a global network of health regulators dedicated to the safe and effective use of AI in healthcare.  The agreement signed today marks the start of a collaboration between Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and HealthAI to share best practices and information aimed at accelerating global efforts for safer and more effective deployment of AI in healthcare, as well as contribute to regulatory solutions such as a “Global Public Directory of AI-related Registered Solutions for Health.” 

This strengthens Singapore’s position as a leader in the responsible adoption of AI across healthcare and represents a milestone in HealthAI’s objective to foster global collaboration for equitable, safe and effective AI-driven health solutions. The first cohort of ten Pioneer Countries is slated to launch by Q3 2025. Singapore is the first Asian nation to join this inaugural cohort. 

The signing also reaffirms Singapore’s commitment to improving health outcomes for its own citizens while nurturing a regional ecosystem where neighbouring countries can engage, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities to meaningfully advance the responsible use of AI in healthcare. 

“We are deeply honoured to enter this strategic partnership with Singapore’s Ministry of Health”, said Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI. “Singapore stands as a champion nation in the responsible governance of AI for health, setting a global benchmark for how innovation and robust oversight can go hand in hand. By joining forces, we are advancing a shared vision for a trusted, effective, and equitable AI ecosystem in healthcare—one that fosters innovation while ensuring safety, accountability, and public trust. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Minister for Health Mr. Ong Ye Kung and Adjunct Professor Dr. Raymond Chua for their visionary leadership and commitment to this transformative agenda. Together, we aim to accelerate progress, foster knowledge exchange, and shape global standards that will ultimately improve health outcomes and quality of life for all.”

Singapore’s formal entry into the HealthAI GRN was marked at a signing ceremony held today in Singapore, attended by Adj Prof Dr Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation), MOH and Chief Executive Officer, Health Sciences Authority, and Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI. Singapore’s Minister for Health, the Honorable Ong Ye Kung, was present to witness the signing.

“AI holds immense potential to radically transform and improve clinical outcomes in healthcare. This is only possible if it is deployed with clear accountability, sound governance and public trust. Considering AI is evolving very quickly, it is important to recognise the importance of shaping responsible AI governance not just in isolation, but through trusted international collaboration. That’s why joining the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network as a pioneer country allows us to engage with other countries to stay ahead of the technology, and co-develop global standards that ensure AI is safe, fair and accountable. MOH and HSA are happy to be part of this global network which will both strengthen our in-house regulatory capabilities, as well as support regional and global efforts in building a more trusted, and effective AI ecosystem for Singapore and the region that ultimately improves lives.” 

Adj Prof Dr Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation), Ministry of Health and Chief Executive Officer, Health Sciences Authority

Pioneer Countries have access to technical assistance, the Global Public Directory of AI-registered health solutions, and the development of guidelines that balance patient safety, data privacy, and innovation. HealthAI intends to launch additional efforts to provide support for pioneer countries, such as stakeholder engagement and the exchange of insights to help inform and refine regulatory approaches, to build a trusted and interconnected framework for the safe and effective use of AI across Southeast Asia and beyond.

1. What is a pioneer country?: A pioneer country is defined as a country deciding to become an early adopter of the Responsible AI in Health approach and that is committed to advancing the maturity level of its regulatory system for AI in Health to ensure the safety and effectiveness of AI solutions in Health.
2. On June 24th, the United Kingdom became the first country to join the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network (GRN).
3. Ministry of Health, Singapore Official Website: https://www.moh.gov.sg/ 
4. Link to the original press release: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/829749338/singapore-s-ministry-of-health-signs-landmark-agreement-to-become-pioneer-country-in-healthai-global-regulatory-network

For Media inquiries, contact:
Stéphane Dupré
Head of Communication – HealthAI  
communication@healthai.agency

London, June 24th, 2025: HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, today welcomes the United Kingdom as the first country to join the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network (GRN), a global network of health regulators dedicated to the safe and effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

This move positions the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) at the forefront of international initiatives to expedite the safe introduction of trusted AI tools into clinical settings – for example, supporting earlier diagnosis and cutting NHS waiting times. This is all the while supporting the growth of the UK’s health technology sector.

As a pioneering member of the HealthAI GRN, the MHRA will work alongside other global regulators to share safety signals early, track how AI performs in real-world use, and shape consistent international health standards, improving safety and effectiveness for patients on a worldwide scale.

The MHRA will build on its acclaimed work in the UK to shape the network from the ground up. This includes AI Airlock, a world-class example of a regulatory sandbox for AI medical devices that allows companies to test new tools with the regulator before a wider NHS rollout. Early examples include AI models that assist GPs in detecting lung conditions earlier and AI that supports more personalized cancer care.

Alongside this, the MHRA has updated its guidance and continues to reform medical device regulations to better reflect emerging technologies like adaptive and generative AI. It is also working closely with researchers, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and the NHS to strengthen real-world evidence on how these tools perform in practice.

The UK’s formal entry into the HealthAI GRN was marked at a signing ceremony at Westminster, London.

From Left to Right: 

• Lord Patrick Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation of the United Kingdom
• Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO, HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health
• Lawrence Tallon, CEO, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)

“AI has huge promise to speed up diagnoses, cut NHS waiting times and save lives – but only if people can trust that it works and is safe. That’s why we’re proud to be leading the way, shaping how this powerful technology is used safely in healthcare here and around the world. From our AI Airlock testbed to new guidance on fast-moving tech like generative AI, we’re backing smart innovation that works for patients – and makes the UK the best place in the world to develop it.” 

Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chief Executive

“We are proud of this landmark collaboration with the UK Government and the MHRA. The UK has long been a trailblazer at the intersection of artificial intelligence and health, and we are honored to welcome it as the first of ten pioneer countries in the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network, fostering global collaboration and shared learning in the regulation and scaling of AI for health.” We believe the UK will both strengthen its leadership in this critical field and offer invaluable expertise to its peers, accelerating global progress toward equitable, AI-powered health systems that ultimately contribute to improving quality of life and well-being for all.” said Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, HealthAI CEO

This announcement was originally published by the UK MHRA. Source: [link]

For Media inquiries, contact:
Stéphane Dupré
Head of Communication – HealthAI  
communication@healthai.agency

HealthAI – ‘The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’, proudly marked a significant milestone on June 4, 2025, as it held the inaugural meeting of the HealthAI Funders’ Council. This advisory body brings together pioneering governments and institutions dedicated to advancing Responsible AI in Health. 

The Council was established to provide our funders with a meaningful way to engage with HealthAI. It is a platform for structured engagement between HealthAI’s independent governance and its donor partners, enabling funders to formally contribute to strategic decisions, strengthen global collaboration, receive regular updates about our projects, and ensure that our work remains aligned with evolving priorities in the AI for health space. This collaborative approach fosters transparency, accelerates impact, and places funders at the heart of global efforts to shape the ethical and effective use of AI in healthcare.

Members of the Council bring experience from diverse sectors, including government, philanthropy, and industry, and represent the global scope of HealthAI’s mission. The inaugural members of the HealthAI Funders’ Council include:

• Dr. Aline Cossy-Gantner, Chief Development Officer, Fondation Botnar
• Carla Cartwright, Head of Global Digital & Regulatory Policy, Johnson & Johnson 
• Christian Wickert, Head of Global Digital Policy, Merck KGaA
• Haitham El-noush, Senior Adviser, Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation 
• Adj Prof Dr Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation), Ministry of Health, Singapore

To learn more about our Funders’ Council members, please visit our Governance page HERE.

“We extend our most profound appreciation to the partners who have joined as inaugural members of the Funders’ Council. As early champions of responsible health innovation, their contributions go beyond funding: they represent a commitment to ensuring that transformative technologies serve global health needs, especially in the most underserved regions. Their support signals bold leadership at a critical moment for global health. ” 

Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO, HealthAI

All organisations supporting HealthAI’s mission are invited to join the Funders’ Council, with each organization appointing one representative during their active commitment period. Together, we are building a global ecosystem that advances responsible AI and supports resilient, inclusive health systems, promoting the right to health. 

We are excited to continue this work in partnership, and we welcome others to join us. To learn more about the Council or to get involved, please get in touch with Ms. Anna Brezhneva, Head of Fundraising & Partnerships, at contact@healthai.agency.

Thank you to our founding donors for your trust, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to global health.

Cover Image courtesy of Yan Krukau on Pexels

HealthAI announces a second round of opportunities for health ministries to apply as Pioneer Countries, reinforcing its commitment to responsible AI adoption in health.

Geneva, Switzerland, 5 March 2025

‘HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’ is expanding its reach and inviting countries worldwide to express their interest in becoming a Pioneer Country* in its Global Regulatory Network (GRN) to strengthen local capacity and capabilities on AI regulation in health.

Due to widespread international demand and reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and global access to responsible AI-driven health solutions, HealthAI is expanding its reach and formally inviting countries from across the globe to express their interest in becoming a Pioneer Country in its Global Regulatory Network (GRN). The first cohort of 10 Pioneer Countries is expected to launch by Q2 2025, with further expansion planned for 2026.

We’ve seen strong interest from multiple countries, and we are deeply grateful for the support shown thus far. This initiative highlights the power of global collaboration, reinforcing the need to expand our reach. Now is the time for global action to ensure AI is leveraged equitably to transform health systems worldwide. Together, let us create a world where AI serves as a trusted and transformative tool for health and well-being for all.

said Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO at HealthAI.

The call for interest reflects both the growing demand for global collaboration on responsible AI in health and HealthAI’s shared commitment to inclusivity, ensuring all countries can contribute to and benefit from this transformative journey. The initiative aims to reduce health inequalities and accelerate the adoption of AI-driven solutions, fostering innovation and collaboration across diverse health systems.

HealthAI welcomes participation from ministries of health, technology, AI, and development, as well as regulatory authorities globally. This inclusive effort ensures that AI-driven health advancements reach countries regardless of their economic status or geographic location.

Why Now? The Urgency of AI-Driven Health Innovation

The global health landscape is at a turning point, with AI offering unprecedented opportunities to enhance health accessibility, efficiency, and equity. However, without coordinated action, the gap between those who benefit from AI-driven advancements and those left behind will only grow. This is simply one of the reasons why HealthAI is committed to harnessing AI responsibly to drive meaningful, system-wide change.

By proactively engaging governments and regulatory bodies, this initiative ensures that AI is not just a tool for innovation but a force for global health equity. The Pioneer Country program provides a structured pathway for nations to integrate AI solutions, strengthen their health systems, and contribute to a collaborative ecosystem that shapes the future of responsible AI in health.

This second round of participation presents a critical opportunity for countries to join a global movement dedicated to ensuring that AI-driven health advancements reach those who need them most—regardless of economic status or geographic location.

Next Steps

Governments, regulatory agencies, and relevant institutions that have the mandate for national AI governance are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest by March 31, 2025. Selected Pioneer Countries will gain access to implementation support, AI expertise, and strategic partnerships aimed at driving national health innovation.

To discuss next steps, HealthAI will get in touch with all parties who submitted an expression of interest during April 2025.

How to Apply

Interested parties are invited to visit https://www.healthai.agency/grn to submit their expression of interest by March 31st, 2025.

*Pioneer Country
A pioneer country is defined as a country deciding to become an early adopter of the Responsible AI in Health approach and that is committed to advancing the maturity level of its regulatory system for AI in Health to ensure the safety and effectiveness of AI solutions in Health. With this minimum level of commitment and skills to validate AI solutions in health, a country may qualify to join HealthAI’s Global Regulatory Network (GRN).

Geneva, December 9th, 2024

Today, ‘HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’ announces the launch of a strategic partnership with Singapore’s Ministry of Health to advance the governance of AI in the healthcare sector. The announcement follows a meeting between Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI, and Adj A/Prof (Dr) Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation), Ministry of Health of Singapore, and the CEO-designate of the Health Sciences Authority. 

This initial agreement signed today marks the beginning of technical discussions to jointly explore initiatives aimed at shaping the future of AI in health. Singapore’s national healthcare AI strategy to develop a trusted and responsible AI ecosystem by providing a clear governance framework for medical device manufacturers, distributors, healthcare service providers, healthcare professionals, and patients is aligned with HealthAI’s goals.

Key focus areas include advancing governance frameworks, leveraging AI to enhance safety and efficiency, and fostering knowledge exchange to tackle shared challenges in deploying AI in healthcare. These efforts underscore a shared vision of promoting innovation while ensuring robust oversight and accountability in the rapidly evolving field of AI in healthcare. 

Working with Singapore allows us to advance innovation and build a trusted AI ecosystem in healthcare, and we are honored to partner with Singapore’s Ministry of Health in this transformative effort. By combining HealthAI’s expertise with Singapore’s forward-thinking strategy, we aim to pioneer approaches that not only enhance safety and innovation but also set global standards for the responsible use of AI in healthcare.

Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite stated

HealthAI looks forward to building a long-term partnership with Singapore’s Ministry of Health that advances the responsible development of AI in healthcare locally and globally and enables innovation to translate into meaningful improvements in health outcomes and quality of care.

The meeting coincides with the IMAGINE AI conference, where HealthAI’s CEO will address a panel on the future of AI in healthcare.

Representatives of Singapore’s Ministry of Health and HealthAI announce the launch of a strategic partnership. 

From Left to Right: 

• Mr Ivan Koh, Director (Regulatory Policy & Legislation Division)-Designate, Ministry of Health
• Adj A/Prof Dr Raymond Chua, Deputy Director-General of Health (Health Regulation), Ministry of Health and Chief Executive Officer-Designate, Health Sciences Authority
• Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO, HealthAI
• Ms Yi-Roe Tan, Country Implementation Manager, HealthAI

For Media inquiries, contact:
Stéphane Dupré
Head of Communication – HealthAI  
communication@healthai.agency

Geneva, 10 December 2024

In early December 2024, ‘HealthAI—The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’, officially launched its Community of Practice (CoP), a groundbreaking global forum designed to strengthen the deployment of Responsible AI governance frameworks in health. The CoP brings together a diverse group of stakeholders to move beyond discussions and into actionable solutions that can shape the future of AI in healthcare.

A Unique Intersection: Health, AI, and Regulation

The HealthAI CoP operates at the critical intersection of health, Responsible AI, and regulation. Recognizing the complexity and global relevance of AI governance in health, the CoP was created to convene a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, researchers, civil society organizations, and private sector leaders. This diversity ensures that the collective efforts reflect a coherent and globally effective approach to advancing AI in healthcare.

From its inception, inclusivity has been a key priority. The CoP has gone to great lengths to bring participants from different regions, particularly low- and middle-income countries, to the table. This ensures that the voices of underrepresented areas are at the heart of the discussions, and their unique needs and perspectives shape the development of governance frameworks.

Global Representation and Strong Membership

The enthusiasm for this initiative has been exceptional, with over 230 applications received in just a few months. Today, the CoP boasts over 170 members, with a remarkable balance of representation: 40% from low- and middle-income countries and 60% from high-income countries.

The CoP’s membership spans an impressive range of organizations and geographies. It includes country representatives from nations as diverse as Zambia, New Zealand, Brazil, Singapore, and South Africa, as well as leading international organizations such as the WHO, UNICEF, and the World Bank. Members also represent public health agencies, universities, hospitals, regulatory bodies, and private sector leaders, including key players in the pharmaceutical and technology industries.

A key innovation within the CoP is the establishment of a Leadership Group, which includes representatives from 18 countries. This group serves as a safe space for policymakers and regulators to share their experiences, challenges, and best practices in regulating AI in health. This peer-learning approach aims to foster local capacity and build more substantial governance capabilities while promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI solutions.

This collaborative approach also benefits the private sector, offering greater clarity on regulatory requirements for market access. By fostering dialogue and knowledge-sharing, the CoP provides private sector partners with the tools they need to develop AI solutions that are not only innovative but also safe, equitable, and sustainable.

Kick-Off Session and Member Priorities

The CoP’s official launch included two virtual sessions designed to accommodate the forum’s global membership. A total of 80 members attended, reflecting a shared enthusiasm for advancing the governance of AI in health. During these sessions, HealthAI presented the planned activities for the coming months and invited members to share their initial thoughts and priorities.

Feedback from members revealed two primary motivations for joining: a desire to deepen their understanding of AI regulation in health and a strong interest in contributing actively to collaborative projects. Many participants emphasized the importance of moving from learning to action, reflecting the CoP’s commitment to producing tangible outcomes.

Action-Oriented Programming

The CoP will cater to its members’ varied profiles through a mix of activities, including thematic webinars, working groups, and collaborative projects. While expository webinars will provide valuable insights into emerging trends and challenges, the working groups will focus on advancing practical knowledge and developing actionable solutions.

Recognizing the demand for practical resources, HealthAI will prioritize the development of case studies, guidelines, and opportunities for members to share their own experiences. One of the CoP’s first significant initiatives will be the creation of a knowledge portal featuring curated resources, policy analysis, and interactive tools to support the global community’s work on AI governance in health.

A Shared Vision for the Future

“It is a testament to the power of global collaboration”, said Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI, about the launch of the Community of Practice. “By bringing together such a diverse and committed group of experts, we are creating a unique space to ensure AI in health serves all populations equitably and responsibly. This launch marks the beginning of a global journey, one in which diverse voices come together to build frameworks that not only govern AI but also inspire trust and innovation in health systems worldwide.

The HealthAI Community of Practice represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in health. By fostering collaboration across sectors and regions, the CoP aims to ensure that the future of AI governance in health is inclusive, effective, and grounded in ethical principles.

Open Applications

HealthAI accepts applications for membership in the CoP on a rolling basis. To apply, click HERE. 

For Media inquiries, contact:
Stéphane Dupré
Head of Communication – HealthAI  
communication@healthai.agency

Geneva, 28 Nov 2024

‘HealthAI—The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’ is pleased to announce that it has received a USD 300,000 grant from the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation. This grant will support the implementation of HealthAI’s strategy by contributing to the creation of a Global Public Repository for validated AI health solutions, supporting the launch of a collaborative Community of Practice, and enhancing the organization’s regulatory capacity to ensure responsible AI adoption across diverse healthcare systems worldwide.

This funding is a significant step forward in HealthAI’s mission to ensure that AI solutions in healthcare meet rigorous ethical, safety, and quality standards. “We are immensely grateful for the support of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation,” said Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI. “This grant empowers us to take key steps towards building a global AI repository. Through our collaboration with regulators across the globe, we will provide an open platform where all stakeholders will be able to access a registry of thoroughly vetted, safe, effective, and equitable solutions.”

The development of the Global Repository will begin with scoping, specification, and platform creation, followed by the first release in 2025. This version will highlight existing software validations by national regulatory authorities, showcasing current and ongoing efforts. The repository will empower innovators by providing global visibility to locally authorized AI health solutions, reducing barriers to international innovation.

In tandem, HealthAI is establishing a Community of Practice. On this collaborative platform, health professionals, policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders will exchange knowledge, share best practices, and stay informed on the latest AI regulation and implementation developments.

Building a better future in healthcare requires global collaboration,” noted Vilas Dhar, President of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation. “By equipping professionals with the skills and resources they need to utilize AI solutions effectively, HealthAI is advancing health equity by connecting validated AI solutions with healthcare providers and communities worldwide – ensuring that life-saving advancements are readily accessible and effectively implemented. The Patrick J. McGovern Foundation is committed to supporting HealthAI in transforming healthcare, using AI to better serve our communities on a global scale. We’re excited to support HealthAI’s work in this critical space with a strong and open partnership.

The grant will also enable HealthAI to strengthen its regulatory expertise, allowing the organization to provide guidance on standards and compliance for AI solutions in healthcare. This will ensure that AI tools meet both local and international regulations, paving the way for a more standardized and trustworthy AI landscape.

About the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation

The Patrick J. McGovern Foundation (PJMF) is a philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence and data science solutions to create a thriving, equitable, and sustainable future for all. PJMF works in partnership with public, private, and social institutions to drive progress on our most pressing challenges, including digital health, climate change, broad digital access, and data maturity in the social sector. For more information, visit https://www.mcgovern.org/ 

For Media inquiries, contact:
Stéphane Dupré
Head of Communication – HealthAI  
stephane.dupre@healthai.agency

Geneva – 19 September 2024

Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of ‘HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health’ is among 205 global leaders selected to join the Obama Foundation Leaders program. The program trains participants worldwide in leadership development and civic engagement to help them build their skills and scale their work across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.  

Dr. Leite will be one of just 36 Leaders participating in the Leaders Europe program and is the first-ever leader from Portugal to have been selected by the Obama Foundation Leaders Program.

It is an extraordinary honor to join the Obama Foundation’s Leaders program alongside 205 values-driven individuals committed to positive impact. Being selected from thousands of leaders worldwide creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond is humbling and invigorating. It is a pivotal moment in my journey as a changemaker.

says Baptista Leite

Ricardo Baptista Leite is a Portuguese-Canadian medical doctor trained in infectious diseases with extensive experience in global health, health systems, and science-based policymaking. Leite served four terms as a Member of Parliament in Portugal on health and foreign affairs committees and founded the ‘UNITE Parliamentarians Network for Global Health,’ a network of current and former policymakers from 112 countries.

As part of the six-month program, these dedicated changemakers will convene virtually each week for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. They will also have an opportunity to participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the Foundation’s global network.

Launched in 2020, Leaders Europe builds upon the legacy of the Obamas and their deep commitment to the region, with a focus on shared values and ethical leadership. The program is creating a network of leaders who drive positive, innovative change in their communities throughout the continent and across the globe. The 2024-2025 class of Europe Leaders are working across a broad range of issues and focus areas, including the climate crisis, democracy and civic engagement, diversity and racial advocacy, refugee and disability rights, and more.  

The Obama Foundation Leaders program is designed to further inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States to change their respective communities and the world. To learn more, visit obama.org/leaders.

SUMMARY

Geneva, Switzerland – To confront the critical and growing demand for effective regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in health, HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health announces the launch of its Global Community of Practice (CoP). The purpose of HealthAI’s COP is to bolster each country’s ability to develop informed regulations that ensure AI’s ethical and equitable use in health.

[GENEVA, 2 April 2024]

As AI technologies evolve at a breakneck pace, public health officials and the health industry face a pressing challenge: establishing regulatory frameworks that can keep up with technological advancements while safeguarding patient welfare. To address this, HealthA, the Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, has initiated a Global Community of Practice (CoP), marking a significant step towards developing a global action plan for AI regulation in health.

“AI can save lives, but we need to get the regulations right,” says Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI. “Our Global Community of Practice is a critical platform for addressing the urgent need for regulation, bringing together global leaders from all sectors to ensure AI’s impact on health is positive, responsible, and inclusive.”

The CoP marks a response to growing concerns over AI’s safe, equitable, and ethical deployment in health. By promoting dialogue, sharing good practices, and encouraging international collaboration, the CoP aims to ensure that AI technologies are implemented responsibly to maximize their potential to improve health outcomes worldwide.

The CoP will focus on:

• Wide-ranging topics: Exploring and discussing various topics related to AI in health to ensure your team stays informed about the latest regulations on AI in health.
• Learning opportunities: Sharing experiences with responsible AI in health, showcasing its achievements, and finding support when solving validation challenges.
• Networking: Organizations can connect with diverse professionals, including policymakers, technology experts, and leaders in the health AI sector. These connections foster collaborations, partnerships, and a chance to shape the conversation around Responsible AI in health.

To learn more about HealthAI’s Community of Practice and how to apply, you can visit HealthAI’s website.

About HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health:

HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health is a global nonprofit organization focused on Responsible AI in health.

HealthAI works with governments, the World Health Organization and many others to strengthen the governance and regulation of AI, build trust, advance equity, and deliver on the potential of emerging technologies.

For more information, please contact:
Lia Kiessling
Head of Communications
lia.kiessling@healthai.agency

HealthAI joins Transform Health in urging G20 leaders to prioritize key action areas in advancing digital health transformation.

19 February 2024, Geneva, Switzerland

HealthAI joins the call for G20 leaders to prioritize responsible AI governance and equitable digital health transformation, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and collaboration for global health advancement.

HealthAI believes in the potential of responsible AI for health, and countries have the opportunity to design that way from the start.  As a neutral and independent non-profit, HealthAI works with governments, the World Health Organization and many others in the health innovation sector to strengthen AI governance and regulation to build trust, advance equity, and deliver on the potential of emerging technologies.

Together with Transform Health and its partners, we stand ready to support the G20 in achieving these goals and making important progress towards delivering health for all in the digital age.

Read our joint statement:

Action areas for the digital transformation of health to deliver UHC

This statement is issued by Transform Health, the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, RECAINSA, AeHIN, FIND and PATH.

Transform Health and partners (a coalition of 150+ organisations) welcome the Brazilian presidency of the G20 Health Working Group’s focus on Building Resilient Health Systems worldwide and working collectively to make progress in achieving universal health coverage (UHC). Digital technologies in health and the digitisation of healthcare are rightly prioritised as critical opportunities to drive progress towards the achievement of UHC and to ensure quality health services to those most in need, with a focus on sustainable and equitable digital transformation.

This offers an important opportunity to build on the work and commitments of previous G20s, including last year’s launch of the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) and a commitment from Health Ministers to support its implementation. We therefore commend the Brazilian Presidency’s proposition of setting clear goals for the implementation of the GIDH and facilitating coordination with other existing frameworks.

Towards these goals, Transform Health and partners urge G20 leaders to prioritise the following action areas to ensure the equitable, inclusive and sustainable digital transformation of health systems to deliver UHC:

1. Prioritise action to strengthen health data governance, to facilitate responsible data sharing for public benefit, while safeguarding individual rights. We encourage G20 governments to support the development and endorsement (through a World Health Assembly Resolution) of a set of minimum components for health data governance regulations (a regulatory playbook), as a resource and benchmark for governments to strengthen their national approaches. We further encourage governments to endorse the equity and rights-based health data governance principles which provide a foundation for stronger regulation and the minimum components. Discussions through the G20, alongside the World Health Assembly, would help establish consensus, alignment and agreement across countries around what is needed, while also establishing a level of harmonisation across countries, which is important to facilitate responsible cross-border data sharing. 
2. Ensure more effective and accountable digital health investment, as part of wider health system investment to deliver UHC. This is an important catalytic investment to build stronger and more resilient health systems that leave no one behind. Funding must prioritise areas that support the equitable, inclusive, sustainable digital transformation of health systems, and it must be coordinated and aligned with national priorities. G20 governments should also prioritise action to address the lack of available, or systematically collected, information on digital health investment, which is requisite to identify and close funding gaps and for better coordination. This includes building consensus around how both domestic and donor investments in digital health transformation should be classified, for example within existing mechanisms such as National Health Accounts and the OECD-DAC donor reporting system, alongside efforts to strengthen routine and sustainable mechanisms for reporting and tracking of investments. Operationalising the GIDH serves as an important opportunity to support this.
3. Operationalise the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) to drive more coordinated and impactful digital health action. G20 governments, through catalytic investments in GIDH lighthouse countries identified in 2024, should align with country-led priorities and needs towards their digital health transformation. G20 governments should ensure that the GIDH prioritises improving the availability and transparency of digital health funding information and better tracking of investment. The meaningful engagement of civil society must also be prioritised as goals are set for the GIDH and as it is operationalised so that it responds to population needs, including vulnerable communities, women, children and adolescents.
4. Make a G20 commitment on responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance for health, including to work across governments and other sectors to prioritise equity and rights-based approaches in strengthening policies and regulation for AI in health in order to cultivate trust and catalyse innovation. Prioritise the collaborative implementation of  global guidelines and principles into country-led regulatory systems and workflows, to support the responsible development, adoption and deployment of responsible AI solutions in health. Ensure responsible AI development and deployment that prioritises health equity, transparency and accountability, while addressing potential biases and ethical concerns, which is essential for building trust and ensuring positive outcome for all. We also encourage G20 governments to recognise and prioritise the need for robust data governance as the bedrock for more effective and equitable digital health and AI governance.

These action areas should be prioritised by G20 countries, both through G20 processes, as well as other important processes and meetings throughout the year, including the World Health Assembly, UN General Assembly, UN Summit of the Future, World Bank meetings, among others. These offer continued opportunities for deliberation, consultation and to take forward action. 

Transform Health and its partners stand ready to support the G20 in achieving these goals and making important progress towards delivering health for all in the digital age.