As of September 1, 2025, a new procedure for providing telemedicine services has come into force in Russia, approved by Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation No. 193n. The document officially established for the first time the possibility of using artificial intelligence systems in telemedicine; now doctors can use registered medical devices based on AI during remote consultations and patient data analysis.
The main innovation allows the use of AI in so-called «deferred» consultations, when a doctor evaluates examination results, images (CT, MRI, X-rays, etc.) and other medical data without direct communication with the patient. Algorithms help doctors analyze information, form preliminary conclusions, and improve the accuracy of decisions. At the same time, AI remains only an auxiliary tool; the final clinical decision is made only by a human.
The new procedure also establishes general rules for specialists’ interaction when providing telemedicine services, consultation timelines, and report preparation. The document is valid until September 1, 2031, and effectively transforms AI from an experimental technology into a legitimate participant in the healthcare system.
It is worth noting that in parallel, the State Duma is working on a bill that will provide a legal definition of artificial intelligence for the first time. In its current version, it proposes to understand it as any data system, software, or hardware capable of processing information using machine learning methods, data analysis, or other approaches that mimic intelligent behavior. This definition will create a unified regulatory framework for all AI technologies, including medical devices, and will make it possible to more accurately determine the area of responsibility for developers and users.
The development of AI in healthcare is taking place within the framework of the digital transformation program for the medical industry and the creation of a Unified Digital Contour (EDCIS). Since 2023, the first decision support systems based on artificial intelligence have begun to be introduced in the regions, and in 2024, the use of such technologies became one of the criteria for the digital maturity of medical organizations. Over the past year, all subjects of the Russian Federation were required to implement as many as 3 medical devices with AI. In the current year, 2025, AI has been incorporated into telemedicine consultations.
