Publication

Current challenges and the way forwards for regulatory databases of artificial intelligence as a medical device

Ong, Ariel Yuhan
Kale, Aditya U
Antoun, Joe
Hogg, Henry David Jeffry
Hammond, Ben
Keane, Pearse A
Pearson, Russell
Harvey, Hugh
Denniston, Alastair K
Abstract
Effective regulatory oversight is a key step in ensuring that artificial intelligence as a medical device (AIaMD) is safe in real-world clinical settings. In this Perspective, we provide insights from our experience working with international regulatory databases, informed by our recent research and the expertise of the multidisciplinary authorship team. We highlight four key challenges, discuss attempts to circumvent these limitations, and highlight emerging initiatives. Nevertheless, the underlying issue of the quality and availability of input data from regulatory databases remains. We discuss considerations for improving accessibility and transparency, outline key aspects for a next-generation regulatory data ecosystem for AIaMDs, and call on global stakeholders to come together and align efforts to develop a clear roadmap to accelerate safe innovation and improve outcomes for patients worldwide.
Citation
Ong AY, Kale AU, Antoun J, Hogg HDJ, Hammond B, Keane PA, Pearson R, Harvey H, Denniston AK. Current challenges and the way forwards for regulatory databases of artificial intelligence as a medical device. NPJ Digit Med. 2026 Feb 11;9(1):235. doi: 10.1038/s41746-026-02407-w.
Journal / Source Title
NPJ digital medicine
DOI
10.1038/s41746-026-02407-w
PMID
41673095
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group
Publisher’s URL
https://www.nature.com/npjdigitalmed/
Publisher’s statement
Note / Copyright