AI doctor now renewing prescriptions in Utah raises concerns

Utah has authorized a program letting Doctronic's AI renew some routine prescriptions for patients with certain chronic conditions; medical groups, including the American Medical Association, say removing physician input poses serious risks.

Utah has launched a program that lets a telehealth company’s AI system renew routine prescriptions for some chronic conditions. The state’s Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy announced a partnership with Doctronic to test whether AI can reduce delays in prescription renewals and improve access to medication. The effort is presented as a way to shorten wait times for renewals and limit gaps in patients receiving prescribed drugs. Some medical organizations have expressed concern about reduced physician involvement. Key facts: - Utah's Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy authorized Doctronic to process renewals for certain medications that were previously prescribed by a physician. - The program is reported to verify patient identity, determine eligible prescriptions from a defined list, conduct a medical interview, and either renew the prescription or escalate the case to a human clinician. - Medical groups, including the American Medical Association, said removing physician input "poses serious risks," and any further regulatory or review steps are undetermined at this time. Summary: Supporters say the program could shorten wait times for renewals and reduce gaps in medication access, while medical groups warn about risks tied to reduced physician oversight. Undetermined at this time.