Advancing Rural Health Through AI Technology

The rapid growth of AI tools has prompted public health organizations to explore their potential. While some may proceed too quickly by adopting AI without fully developed rationale, others may hesitate due to uncertainty or challenges in the evolving field. Addressing these challenges requires a thoughtful, multipronged approach — including well-designed policies — to ensure responsible and effective AI use while mitigating potential drawbacks. 

 To support these efforts, Developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policies for Public Health Organizations: A Template and Guidance offers a comprehensive and adaptable framework to help organizations craft or refine their AI policies. It was developed by a collaboration between the Kansas Health Institute, Health Resources in Action and the Wichita State University Community Engagement Institute.

 Key Features of the Template and Guidance  

• Adaptable Provisions with Contextual Guidance: The document not only provides policy provisions but also offers context for each section, fostering proactive and thoughtful development. It includes a series of self-reflection questions designed to help organizations and individuals articulate a clear rationale for when AI might be an appropriate solution, while ensuring that equity and ethics remain central to decision-making on AI use.  

• Research-Informed Development: The guidance is grounded in an environmental scan, including a review of AI policies from various cities and states, a literature review and expert input from 14 reviewers representing public health institutions, national public health associations, academia, city government, a global consulting group and an AI developer, among others.  

• Comprehensive Structure: The document organizes its content into commonly included policy sections, starting with the purpose, scope and core principles. Following these foundational elements, the guidance addresses six topics: 
  • Data Privacy  
  • Bias Mitigation  
  • Human Oversight  
  • Transparency  
  • Community Engagement  
  • Training and Capacity Building  

We encourage your organization to use this Template and Guidance to inform your conversations about AI, reflect on your current organizational practices and create a future roadmap.