About AI and Our Stance at HDST

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an “engineered system that generates predictive outputs such as content, forecasts, recommendations, or decisions for a given set of human-defined objectives or parameters” (SPA, 2024).

AI is increasingly becoming integrated in technologies used by our clinic. Our clinic is approaching AI in a cautious, yet optimistic way. We are thinking about how AI can improve and add value to our face-to-face interactions, whilst also protecting our clients and upholding our values as allied health professionals. As part of delivering quality and ethical services that uphold the privacy and safety rights of our clients, it is essential that any potential use of AI in our service delivery model is critically evaluated. 

At HDST, we use the followinhg guiding principles when considering and adopting AI in our service delivery model:

• Client-first and family-first care: AI must not override clinical reasoning or professional judgment
• Culturally safe, neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed
• Evidence based: Prioritise sound and evidence based clinical judgement by our therapists
• Safety and risk minimisation: AI outputs must be critically evaluated before use
• Transparency: Clients should be informed where AI meaningfully contributes to their care
• Privacy and confidentiality: No identifiable client data is to be entered into AI systems without explicit approval and safeguards
• Compliance: AI Use must align with relevant laws, regulations, and professional codes of conduct
• Equity and fairness: Avoid bias or discriminatory outcomes arising from AI use
• Values and places emphasis on the environment and sustainability

AI and Privacy at HDST

At HDST, no personally identifiable client information may be entered into AI systems unless the tool has been formally approved and complies with Australian privacy laws. In the case where AI is used to develop resources and materials to support therapy, only de-identified or anonymised data can be entered. Our team are aware of their obligations to compluy with relevanyt privacy and  health records legislation, and are aware that data storage and transmission must meet practice security standards at all times.

Any new integration or use of AI in our service delivery model that includes the processing and storage of client infromation will be communicated with participants and their representatives in a timely manner. In such cases, participants and their caregivers are rightfully able to opt-out of these technologies whilst engaging with services from HDST.