UK backs healthcare AI regulation plan

The UK Government has accepted all 44 recommendations from the National Commission into the Regulation of AI in Healthcare after its report was published on 10 September 2026. The commission, established by the MHRA, drew on consultation with more than 12,000 clinicians and patients to propose a regulatory framework for AI across healthcare.

A central shift is moving beyond one-off approvals toward monitoring AI-enabled medical devices throughout their working lives. The MHRA is linking that approach to its AI Airlock regulatory sandbox, which will bring developers, regulators and healthcare partners together to test post-deployment monitoring, including post-market surveillance, and use the evidence to shape future guidance and policy.

By December 2026, the MHRA is expected to publish draft guidance on managing changes to AI-enabled medical devices as they adapt and improve over time. A full implementation roadmap covering all 44 recommendations is due by Spring 2027, alongside work to strengthen patient participation, improve routes to redress and ensure the benefits of healthcare AI reach underserved communities fairly.