1. Purpose
Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM) recognizes that Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are increasingly integrated into healthcare, medical education, research, and clinical practice. The purpose of this policy is to promote the ethical, responsible, and professional use of AI while preserving academic integrity, critical thinking, patient confidentiality, and professional accountability.
This policy aligns with the principles of professionalism, evidence-based medicine, and lifelong learning expected of physicians and is informed by emerging guidance from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).
2. Guiding Principles
The use of AI within the MD Program shall be guided by the following principles:
- Human Accountability
- Academic Integrity
- Transparency
- Critical Evaluation
- Confidentiality and Privacy
- Professionalism
3. Definition
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer-based systems capable of generating text, images, audio, code, analyses, or recommendations based on user inputs.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Generative AI platforms (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Microsoft Copilot)
- AI-assisted writing and editing applications
- AI-powered study and tutoring platforms
- AI-generated image or presentation tools
- AI-assisted data analysis applications
4. Permitted Uses
Students may use AI as a supplemental educational tool for:
- Explaining concepts and terminology
- Creating study guides and summaries
- Generating practice questions and mnemonics
- Organizing study schedules and learning plans
- Improving grammar and readability
- Assisting with literature summaries and data organization under faculty supervision
- Preparing presentations and developing communication skills
All AI-generated information must be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy.
5. Prohibited Uses
Unless expressly authorized by the course director or instructor, students shall not:
Academic Misconduct
- Submit AI-generated work as original work
- Use AI during examinations, quizzes, OSCEs, or assessments where unauthorized assistance is prohibited
- Fabricate references, citations, data, or sources
- Use AI to circumvent learning objectives
Clinical and Patient Information
- Enter identifiable patient information into public AI systems
- Upload patient records, images, laboratory reports, or protected information to external AI platforms
- Substitute AI-generated information for independent clinical reasoning
Professional Misconduct
- Misrepresent AI-generated content as personal work or expertise
- Generate false documentation or academic records
- Engage in plagiarism, collusion, or other forms of academic dishonesty
6. Use of AI in Assessments
Unless explicitly permitted by the course director:
- Examinations, quizzes, practical examinations, OSCEs, and graded assignments shall be completed independently.
- Unauthorized use of AI may constitute academic misconduct.
- Faculty may specify assignments in which AI use is permitted, restricted, or prohibited.
Course-specific instructions supersede this policy.
7. Disclosure Requirements
When AI use is permitted, students should appropriately acknowledge its use.
Example:
"Artificial intelligence software was used to assist in generating an outline and improving grammar. All content was reviewed and independently verified by the student."
The extent of disclosure may vary according to course requirements.
8. Confidentiality and Data Protection
Students shall not:
- Upload identifiable patient information to public AI systems;
- Upload confidential institutional documents or examination materials;
- Share protected information that may compromise privacy, security, or intellectual property.
Students are expected to comply with all applicable privacy laws, institutional policies, and professional standards concerning confidentiality and data protection.
9. Faculty Responsibilities
Faculty members should:
- Clearly communicate expectations regarding AI use in their courses;
- Specify whether AI use is permitted, restricted, or prohibited;
- Design learning activities that promote critical thinking and authentic engagement;
- Educate students regarding the limitations, biases, and ethical considerations associated with AI technologies.
10. Violations
Violations of this policy may constitute academic misconduct and may result in:
- Educational remediation;
- Assignment or examination failure;
- Referral to the Student Promotions Committee or Student Professional Conduct Committee;
- Disciplinary action in accordance with University policies and the Student Handbook.
11. Future Physician Responsibilities
Students are expected to:
- Understand the capabilities and limitations of AI technologies;
- Exercise independent professional judgment;
- Verify AI-generated information using reliable evidence;
- Protect patient confidentiality and institutional information;
- Use AI in a manner that promotes patient safety, ethical practice, and professional integrity.
12. Policy Review
This policy shall be reviewed at least annually by the MD Curriculum Committee and revised as necessary to reflect emerging educational practices, technological developments, professional guidance, and accreditation expectations.
Disclosure Statement
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools were utilized to support the development and drafting of this policy document. The final content was reviewed, revised, and approved by the appropriate University authorities and reflects the policies and positions of Xavier University School of Medicine.
Approved By: MD Curriculum Committee and Faculty Senate
Responsible Office: Curriculum Committee
Policy Contact: Chair, Curriculum Committee
Xavier University School of Medicine
Email: mhansdamd@xusom.com