Press the Brakes on AI Adoption, Says the ABR
Question: The growth and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is impressive. I understand that several radiology practices are using AI to assist with checking for abnormalities on imaging exams, for example. Are any organizations taking a step back to evaluate the tool before deploying it? Montana Subscriber Answer: You are correct that AI’s adoption and progression has exploded in recent years and that radiology practices are using the technology in a variety of ways to assist in their everyday workflows. However, some organizations, like the American Board of Radiology (ABR), are taking a cautious approach to AI. In an August 2026 update, the ABR announced it is pressing pause on AI adoption. The organization recognizes that the technology has benefits as well as potential risks. “[The] ABR is taking a deliberate approach: studying developments, engaging experts and stakeholders, and establishing thoughtful guardrails before considering the introduction of any changes,” the organization wrote in an August 2026 blog post. The board wants to ensure its certification programs remain valid, credible, and maintain integrity, which is why the organization is taking the time to evaluate AI thoroughly. Furthermore, the ABR continues to assert that it does not use AI to create exam content or make scoring or certification decisions. Those decisions must “remain the responsibility of qualified human experts,” according to the ABR. The organization is proactively developing guidelines and policies that address the probable risks, including the following: As AI progresses and organizations add the technology to their workflows, the ABR will need to evaluate AI and decide if a standard level of knowledge and skill will fit into future certification exams. “When AI becomes an expected part of effective clinical practice, the ABR will have a responsibility to assess those related subjects, and we intend to publicly announce the introduction of AI into the exam blueprints when that time comes,” the organization said. Mike Shaughnessy, BA, CPC, Production Editor, AAPC
