About
The use of innovative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence Systems (AIS) within healthcare is becoming more prevalent. Within general practice, the likelihood is that the main use would be as a tool to support in the writing of patient consultations or referral letters. Our surgery is now using an AI Scribe system to help record and document patient consultations. This technology assists our clinicians by securely transcribing conversations during appointments and creating draft clinical notes. The aim is to reduce administrative burden on our healthcare team, allowing them to focus more on you during your consultation. More information can be found on Digitally Transformed NHS section and NHS England long Term Digital Strategy.
Please be assured that:
The AI Scribe does not make clinical decisions – all medical assessments, diagnoses, and treatments remain the responsibility of your GP or clinician.
The notes produced are reviewed and approved by your clinician before being added to your medical record.
Your information is handled in line with NHS data protection standards and GDPR. The system is designed to protect patient confidentiality at all times.
What we will do
When considering the information governance (IG) implications, there is a need to be clear about ensuring the criteria within the DPA18 is being met. In particular:
- What data is required?
- Why is it required?
- Who will be processing it and will it be shared?
- How will it be processed?
- Where will it be processed?
Retention of any AI data is as for other healthcare records and as detailed within the Record Retention Schedule document. Guidance for patients in relation to what AI tools that are used by the practice is captured in the Privacy Notice – Artificial Intelligence.
To ensure that risks have been considered and mitigated, prior to establishing AIS at this practice, a risk assessment will be conducted. Further guidance can be sought within the practice’s Health, Safety and Risk Management Handbook.
Staff training and guidance
The use of and signing up to any AI tools can only be done after having obtained the explicit, written consent of the Partners or management. Unauthorised use of AI services will be considered a serious breach that may result in disciplinary action. The Practice Manager will maintain a list of those who are permitted to use AI technology.
Medical records are protected by the data Protection Act 1998. If you are complaining on behalf of someone else we need to know that you have their permission to do so. A note signed by the person concerned will be needed unless they are incapable (i.e. due to illness) of providing this.
If your not sure
We believe this technology will help improve efficiency and the quality of care we provide. If you have any concerns, you may request not to have AI Scribe used during your consultation. If you would like more information, please speak to a member of our practice team.