Selecting AI Tools

Rural healthcare organizations may be at various stages in adopting AI technologies. Some may be in an early exploratory stage, learning about AI and considering potential uses for the organization. Others may be exploring options or implementing AI tools. There are many AI tools available, and deciding which solution is appropriate for meeting the organization's needs can be complex.

Rural health system leaders noted that vendors frequently market new AI tools to them, and they must critically review and determine which solutions are credible, useful, and appropriate for their needs.

Rural healthcare organizations have specific staff and teams that review and select AI tools. These teams generally include hospital leaders, such as the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Medical Information Officer, information technology and data security leaders, risk and compliance leaders, and clinical leaders. Rural health systems also have governance and oversight committees that play a key role in these decisions.

Additionally, third-party organizations with expertise in AI, including consulting firms, academic groups, and health IT advisors, have emerged to help healthcare organizations evaluate available AI tools.

Rural healthcare organizations may benefit from reviewing the Health Care Artificial Intelligence Vendor Check List from the California Telehealth Resource Center. Designed for clinics and hospitals in rural communities, this checklist contains questions and considerations when selecting a vendor to meet their needs.