Regulation of artificial intelligence in Uganda's healthcare: exploring an appropriate regulatory approach and framework to deliver universal health coverage.

Abstract

Background: Uganda, like other United Nations (UN) member states, has undertaken to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030 in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 targets. However, if this target is to be achieved, efforts will need to be increased, as full coverage of essential services remains an issue. Access to quality, acceptable and affordable healthcare remains an illusion for many Ugandans. Artificial Intelligence can be a valuable tool in achieving UHC as it can increase access to health facilities in hard-to-reach areas. AI tools have also been reported to perform faster than humans at certain key health tasks like diagnosis. However, for AI to be effective in delivering its benefits, context-specific regulatory approaches are key, as needs and opportunities differ. In this paper, I argue that the regulation of AI can help make it an effective tool for achieving UHC in Uganda if the right regulatory approach and framework are adopted, as regulation shapes outcomes. This will tackle the risk of poor regulation hindering AI development and AI reinforcing inequalities.

Methods: The paper employs a doctrinal methodology to analyse the two prominent regulatory approaches to AI in the EU and UK, which have adopted a risk-based and principles-based approach, respectively. It investigates whether these approaches are suitable for regulating AI in Uganda's healthcare and achieving UHC. The strengths and weaknesses of each approach are examined. The paper advocates for considering a human rights-based approach that can be integrated with the principles-based approach.

Results: Regulation is a double-edged tool that can positively or negatively shape health outcomes. Good regulation has the potential to emancipate ordinary people's lives. Therefore, Uganda should leverage the positive aspects of principles-based and human rights-based approaches to regulation to ensure that AI's potential to achieve UHC is effective.

Conclusion: The hybrid approach to AI regulation is best suited to serve Uganda's healthcare needs. The foremost priority for Uganda is to attain Universal Health Coverage. A hybrid approach will contribute to this however, it is not the silver bullet. Uganda needs to supplement efforts to achieve UHC with other non-regulatory strategies.