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What types of AI tools used in healthcare will be regulated by the upcoming Medical Products Bill, if any?

Answered Question 7341 (2026)
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Asked by

Ayesha Verrall

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • What types of AI tools used in healthcare will be regulated by the upcoming Medical Products Bill, if any?

Answered by

Hon Casey Costello

List MP · NZ First Party · Associate Minister of Health

Answer

The Medical Products Bill (the Bill) will regulate AI tools that are intended for a therapeutic purpose, rather than regulating AI more broadly. Specifically, the Bill will apply to software and AI that meet the internationally accepted definition of a medical device, ‘Software as a Medical Device’. Examples include AI systems used to screen for conditions, deliver therapy, or provide AI-driven diagnostics. AI tools used for administrative and operational purposes (such as AI-scribes and patient management systems), or for research or general informational purposes will not be regulated under the Bill.