NEJM AI Panel - Featuring Lyric's Akshay Sharma
In this panel discussion, hosted by the New England Journal of Medicine AI, experts from diverse backgrounds tackle the delicate balance of regulating artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare without stifling innovation. Moderated by Zach Kohane, the panel includes Dr. David Rhew (Microsoft), Jeff Neveda (Viz.ai), and Akshay Sharma (Lyric).
The conversation begins by exploring the “fears” around AI regulation. David worries about sweeping policies that might halt progress altogether. Jeff emphasizes the importance of avoiding double regulation; many healthcare AI products are already under FDA oversight. Akshay warns against premature and overly restrictive rules, such as those dictating model size or requiring every generative AI app to receive committee approval before release.
All panelists agree that it’s too early for stringent mandates that could hinder valuable use cases. They point out that patients are already benefiting, and overly cautious approaches could deprive them of new tools and efficiencies. Akshay and Zach note the need to consider patient voices and how these tools can address current healthcare challenges like clinician burnout and the breakdown of primary care.
The discussion pivots to the challenges of safe deployment. Privacy, security, and data governance top the list. David highlights differences between using generative AI models in a public domain setting and employing enterprise-grade solutions that maintain strict patient data confidentiality. Akshay stresses that companies must ensure data stays siloed and de-identified, while Jeff reminds everyone that existing healthcare regulations like HIPAA—and FDA frameworks for AI-driven medical devices—already offer some guidelines.
Internationally, the EU and the US lead the way on AI regulation, but the panel sees public-private partnerships as key to refining these policies. Everyone agrees on the importance of transparency, oversight, and a rational regulatory approach that supports long-term growth. Ultimately, the panel envisions a future where thoughtful guidelines, combined with enterprise-level safeguards and collaboration, can protect patients, inspire trust, and still leave room for groundbreaking innovation.
Additional Videos
