Artificial intelligence is advancing further in health care as Utah introduces a pilot program allowing an AI system to issue initial medication prescriptions. This development does not require a doctor’s visit for prescriptions, marking a first in the United States.
Nolla Health initiated the program after extensive coordination with the Utah Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy, focusing primarily on acne treatment. The program, which started on October 5, allows Utah residents aged 18 and over to use the Nolla Derm app for acne treatment advice and, if appropriate, a prescription.
The Background of AI Prescriptions
This AI initiative follows an earlier program in Utah that sparked opposition from some physicians. In April, the Utah Medical Licensing Board asked state officials to stop a program run by Doctronic due to safety concerns. This program allowed AI to renew certain prescriptions without doctors’ oversight. The board emphasized that prescription decisions require clinical oversight, monitoring for side effects, drug interactions, and assessing medication effectiveness.
About Nolla Health
Nolla Health is a company focused on leveraging AI to improve health care accessibility. Co-founder and CEO, Luis Wenus, believes that everyone deserves affordable and high-quality care. The company reports that its dermatology app has over 175,000 downloads across 44 states.
The Rationale for AI in Acne Treatment
Nolla Health chose dermatology because acne is widespread and relatively low risk. Moreover, acne treatment is consistent, making it suitable for AI prescription. In Utah, over 100,000 people have acne, yet only 10% visit a dermatologist, with wait times averaging 61 days for appointments.
Despite these factors, some medical professionals argue that acne should not be among the first conditions for AI prescriptions. They stress that many factors influencing prescription require in-person assessments.
How Nolla’s AI Prescription Works
Users must download the Nolla Derm app, verify their identity, consent, complete a medical questionnaire, and provide a facial scan. The AI analyzes these inputs, providing a treatment plan in 10 to 15 minutes. If suitable, the system prescribes medication, which can be filled at pharmacies or delivered.
Nolla clarifies that its AI acts as a guide, not a stand-alone decision-maker. If cases are complex, referrals are made to healthcare professionals. Regulators insist on strict oversight; for the first 100 patients, two physicians must review each AI-generated prescription. This oversight will reduce if safety standards, such as a 95% agreement with physician recommendations and the absence of significant adverse effects, are met.
Future Prospects for AI Prescriptions
This pilot stands out as it involves initial rather than renewal prescriptions. Earlier this year, Utah was the first state to permit AI to renew certain prescriptions. This new program tests whether AI can safely participate in clinical decisions, traditionally handled by doctors.
If successful, the program might inspire similar initiatives in other states for low-risk ailments with standard treatment protocols. However, its application remains restricted; it only covers acne treatments for adults in Utah.
Amidst physician shortages and extended wait times, regulators, hospitals, and tech companies are keen to explore how AI can enhance health care. This pilot could signal a significant shift in AI-assisted prescribing in the U.S.
Newsweek has sought comments from Dr. Zaid Fadul, Nolla Health’s chief medical adviser, and the Utah Medical Licensing Board and awaits their responses.