Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Halton Healthcare
Halton Healthcare is committed to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly to enhance care, protect privacy, and support our healthcare teams. This page outlines how we use AI in alignment with our values and strategic priorities.
We are committed to delivering exemplary patient experiences, always. As part of our Strategic Plan, we are embracing innovation and digital transformation to enhance care, improve outcomes, and support our healthcare teams. AI is one of the tools helping us achieve this vision.
We use AI thoughtfully and responsibly to support clinical decision-making, streamline operations, and improve the quality and safety of care. Whether helping to identify patterns in data or assisting with documentation, AI is used to complement—not replace—the expertise of our healthcare professionals.
Our Commitment to Safe and Ethical AI Use
We are guided by the following principles in all AI-related activities:
- Patient Safety First: AI is used to support, not substitute, the clinical judgment of our healthcare providers.
- Privacy and Security: We protect personal information, including personal health information, in accordance with applicable laws and internal policies.
- Transparency: We are open about how AI is used in care delivery and operations.
- Human Oversight: All AI-generated insights are reviewed by qualified professionals before being used in patient care or decision-making.
- Equity and Accountability: We actively assess AI tools for bias and ensure they align with our values of respect, compassion, and excellence.
- Data Storage and Use: All data used in AI applications at Halton Healthcare is stored securely in accordance with Canadian privacy legislation and internal policies. We do not use AI tools that transmit personal information outside of approved environments. AI systems are designed to process data responsibly, with safeguards in place to prevent unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
AI Supporting How We Care
AI supports our care and process by:
- Empowering People: By reducing administrative burden, AI allows our teams to focus more on patient care.
- Innovating for Impact: We explore emerging technologies like AI to improve access, efficiency, and outcomes.
- Partnering for Better Health: AI helps us collaborate more effectively with patients, families, and system partners.
Your Choice Matters
If AI is used in your care, you have the right to know. You may also choose to opt out of AI-supported services where possible, without affecting the quality of your care. Please speak with your care team if you have questions or concerns.
References
Halton Healthcare. (2024). *Policy: Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Halton Healthcare*.
Sault Area Hospital. (n.d.). *Artificial Intelligence (AI) at SAH*. Retrieved from https://www.sah.on.ca/
For questions about AI use at Halton Healthcare, please contact: privacy@haltonhealthcare.com