As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into healthcare, Rep. Herb Conaway says protecting patients has to remain at the center of how the technology is used.
During a conversation with the Black Information Network's Andrea Coleman at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 55th Annual Legislative Conference, the New Jersey Democrat discussed artificial intelligence, clinical research and access to healthcare.
Conaway, who is a physician, became the first Black doctor with voting privileges to serve in Congress when he was sworn in to represent New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District in 2025.
At ALC, Conaway discussed the potential for AI to improve healthcare and clinical research while stressing the need for safeguards addressing bias, patient safety and access.
The congressman has also worked on legislation governing the use of AI in healthcare. In July, Conaway and Rep. Greg Murphy introduced the bipartisan Protecting Patients from Automated Denials Act, which would require a qualified physician to review and approve AI-assisted denials of care under Medicare Advantage plans. The legislation would also give the Department of Health and Human Services authority to audit how those plans use AI.
Conaway also criticized healthcare and research funding decisions under the Trump administration, arguing that reductions affecting Medicaid and public health programs could disproportionately impact patients who depend on community health centers and other safety-net providers.
He called for stronger congressional oversight and continued investment in medical research and public health infrastructure, arguing that healthcare policy should be driven by evidence and the needs of patients.
Listen to the full conversation below!
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