How to Draft an AI Disclosure for Your Telehealth App
Don't scare your patients—inform them. The art of the AB 3030 compliant disclaimer. 📱
The Goal: Clarity Without Panic
Telehealth companies face a delicate balancing act. You need to comply with AB 3030 by telling patients they are talking to an AI, but you don't want to undermine their confidence in the care they are receiving. A poorly worded disclaimer can cause patients to abandon the session.
Key Elements of a Good Disclosure
- Identity: Clearly state that the entity is an AI.
- Role: Explain what the AI is doing (e.g., gathering info, scheduling).
- Limitation: State that it is not a doctor.
- Oversight: Reassure them that a human is involved.
Template Examples
Option 1: The Direct Approach (Best for Triage)
"Hi! I am an AI assistant designed to help gather your symptoms for Dr. Smith. I am not a doctor. A human care team member will review everything I say before you receive a diagnosis."
Option 2: The Collaborative Approach (Best for Mental Health)
"Welcome. I am a virtual support guide powered by AI. I'm here to help you practice coping skills between your therapy sessions. If you need immediate human help, please type 'Human'."
Placement and UX
Place this message at the very top of the chat window. It should be the first bubble they see, distinct from the rest of the conversation. Consider using a different background color for the AI's messages to visually distinguish them from human messages.
Conclusion
Good UX is compliant UX. Be honest, be helpful, and give the patient a sense of control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put the disclosure in the footer?
No. AB 3030 requires the disclosure to be "prominent" and at the "start" of the interaction. A footer link is likely insufficient.
Do I need a checkbox for them to agree?
It is not strictly required by AB 3030, but it is a good idea for informed consent purposes. Having a user click "I understand I am chatting with an AI" provides a strong legal defense.
What languages do I need to support?
If your app supports multiple languages, the disclosure must be in the language the patient is using. Don't show an English disclaimer to a Spanish-speaking patient.