Survey finds use of unauthorized ‘shadow AI’ tools running rampant in health care

A new survey of healthcare professionals and administrators found that unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI) tools and apps are in wide use across hospitals and health systems in the U.S., including for direct patient care. Wolters Kluwer Health, which conducted the survey, calls these unauthorized tools “shadow AI,” and says their use raises concerns about patient safety, data privacy, and regulatory compliance.

The survey, conducted last month among 518 providers and administrators, found that “40% of respondents have encountered an unauthorized AI tool in their organizations, and nearly 20% have used them.”

“Doctors and administrators are choosing AI tools for speed and workflow optimization, and when approved options aren’t available, they may be taking risks,” said Yaw Fellin, senior vice president and general manager, clinical decision support and provider solutions, for Wolters Kluwer Health. “Shadow AI isn’t just a technical issue; it’s a governance issue that may raise patient safety concerns. Leaders must act now to close the policy gap around AI use, develop clear compliance guidelines, and ensure that only validated, secure, enterprise-ready AI tools are used in clinical care.”

Read more about the survey here.