The AMA Urges Congress To Establish Safeguards For AI Mental Health Chatbots 

The American Medical Association (AMA) is urging Congress to establish additional safeguards for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in mental health care to protect consumers. Although the technology has promise for expanding access to mental health resources, reported risks associated with chatbots include privacy breaches and responses encouraging self-harm.

To inform Congress about its concerns, the AMA sent letters to the co-chairs of the Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus, the Congressional Digital Health Caucus, and the Senate Artificial Intelligence Caucus. AMA Chief Executive Officer John Whyte, M.D., MPH, wrote: “With thoughtful oversight and accountability, policymakers can . . .