Russia to Allow AI in Telemedicine Starting September 1

Russia is expanding its telemedicine rules to include approved AI systems, aiming to improve care access—especially in remote regions.

Beginning September 1, Russian doctors will be allowed to use artificial intelligence in telemedicine for consultations and remote patient monitoring. The change comes with the introduction of updated regulations, according to RIA Novosti, citing Badma Bashankayev, first deputy chair of the State Duma’s Health Protection Committee.

AI can now be used to adjust treatment plans—provided the system has official approval. However, an in-person examination is still mandatory before any remote care begins.

The document defines four main formats of telemedical services: doctor-to-doctor consultations (emergency, urgent, and planned), remote analysis of diagnostic results, virtual consultations with patients, and ongoing remote health monitoring.

Bashankayev emphasized that the goal is to improve healthcare access, particularly for people living in remote areas. But he also stressed the need for real-world implementation: hospitals must be connected, personnel trained, and infrastructure upgraded.

The adoption of these new standards marks another milestone in the digital transformation of Russia’s healthcare system, where AI is increasingly becoming a clinical assistant, empowering patients with faster, more accessible care.