On February 12, 2025, Maryland lawmakers introduced House Bill 1240, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare settings. The bill seeks to ensure that AI technologies do not compromise the quality of patient care in favor of cost reduction.

The primary provisions of House Bill 1240 include a prohibition against healthcare providers using AI systems that are designed solely to cut costs at the expense of patient care quality. This includes scenarios where AI might delay treatment or deny coverage. The bill mandates that healthcare providers utilizing AI to influence medical decisions must publish annual reports on their websites starting in 2026. These reports will detail critical metrics such as the frequency of decisions reviewed by human professionals, rates of overturned decisions, misdiagnoses, and medication dosage errors.

The introduction of this bill has sparked notable discussions among legislators, healthcare professionals, and technology advocates. Proponents argue that the legislation is essential for safeguarding patient welfare in an increasingly automated healthcare landscape. They emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in AI applications, particularly as reliance on technology grows.

Opponents, however, raise concerns about the potential for stifling innovation in healthcare technology. They argue that stringent regulations could hinder the development of beneficial AI tools that could enhance efficiency and patient outcomes. Some stakeholders suggest that the bill may require amendments to balance patient safety with the advancement of healthcare technology.

The implications of House Bill 1240 extend beyond regulatory compliance; they touch on broader economic and social issues. As healthcare providers adapt to these new requirements, there may be increased operational costs associated with compliance and reporting. Additionally, the bill could influence the development and deployment of AI technologies in Maryland, potentially positioning the state as a leader in ethical AI use in healthcare.

As the legislative process unfolds, experts anticipate that further debates will refine the bill's provisions. The outcome of House Bill 1240 could set a precedent for how AI is integrated into healthcare systems nationwide, making it a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology and patient care.