AI AND TELEMEDICINE IN PAKISTAN: REGULATING DIGITAL HEALTH THROUGH LEGAL INNOVATION

Abstract

The healthcare industry in Pakistan is experiencing a rapid change with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and telemedicine, which is increasing accessibility, accuracy, and efficiency of medical services. Even today, this online revolution requires a strong legal and regulatory framework to support the safety of patients, privacy of patient data and other ethical uses of technology. In Pakistan, today, a combination of patchwork regulations, such as the regulations of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the PECA 2016, or the general health laws, is required, not all of which are created in a manner that would fully address the needs of AI-based diagnostics, digital prescriptions, cross-border consultations, and the question of liability.  To create consumer confidence, it can be beneficial to create specific regulations of digital health, to incorporate the international best practices, to develop licensing policies of telehealth workers, and to enforce the strictest cybersecurity rules. The governance could be simplified by a special digital health authority. Potential regulation will make Pakistan harness AI and telemedicine in a responsible way and deliver healthcare in a safe, equitable, and future-ready manner.