RCVS publishes artificial intelligence roundtable report
“AI is another tool in the veterinary toolbox, but there should always be a ‘human in the loop’” – Lizzie Lockett.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has published a report on the roundtable it held earlier this year on artificial intelligence (AI).
The AI Roundtable, which took place on 20 May, 2024 at the Institute of Engineering and Technology, London, saw over 100 attendees discuss the potential risks and benefits of AI being used in the veterinary sector.
Representatives from the veterinary professions, educational institutions and technology companies took part in a mix of presentations, plenary sessions and small group discussions.
For the RCVS, the event was a first step towards considering how it might possibly regulate the use of AI in the future.
Lizzie Lockett, RCVS chief executive and chair of the roundtable, said: “The clear feeling from the room on the day was that any action the RCVS takes to regulate the use of AI in the veterinary sector would need to emphasise that the veterinary professional should ultimately remain responsible for clinical decision-making and the delivery of veterinary care.
“AI is another tool in the veterinary toolbox, but there should always be a ‘human in the loop’.”
Following the event, the college is considering what practical steps it can take to ensure that AI is used appropriately and transparently in a way that maximises the benefits and minimises any potential risks.
Ms Lockett added: “This may include changes to the Codes of Professional Conduct, changes to vet school accreditation standards and day one competences for new graduates, recognising the need for training and culture change around the adoption of new technologies, and better understanding any concerns the public may have around AI use in veterinary clinical settings.”
The report can be read here.
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Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
