The UK’s National Commission into the Regulation of AI in Healthcare has reported strong public backing for reforms to how artificial intelligence is governed in the health sector, following a call for evidence that drew more than 770 responses.

Preliminary findings indicate broad agreement on the need to strengthen existing frameworks rather than replace them entirely, with a particular focus on improving post-market surveillance and continuous monitoring of AI systems once deployed in clinical settings.

Henrietta Hughes, patient safety commissioner and deputy chair of the commission, said the responses highlight growing public interest in shaping AI governance.

“There is strong support for reform of the current regulatory approach,” Hughes said. “People want meaningful change, but not a complete overhaul. This reflects confidence in parts of the existing system, alongside a need to strengthen and adapt it as technologies evolve.”

Respondents also raised concerns around accountability and oversight, particularly regarding how AI-powered medical devices are monitored in real-world use and how responsibility is assigned when issues arise.

The findings underscore the importance of trust in AI healthcare systems, spanning both the technology itself and the frameworks that regulate its use.

The commission is continuing consultations with patients, clinicians and industry stakeholders, including public engagement sessions and sector roundtables led by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).