At St Georges Surgery in Worle, Weston-super-Mare, generative AI is revolutionizing the way patient consultations are documented. Instead of doctors manually taking notes, an “AI scribe” uses ambient voice technology to record and summarize conversations during appointments—with patient consent. This innovation enables doctors to engage more fully in face-to-face discussions without the distraction of typing.
Karin Smith, the minister of state for secondary care and MP for Bristol South, highlighted the broader vision behind this shift: “Part of our plan is to transform the NHS from an analogue system to a digital one, embracing technology to make healthcare fit for the future.”
Andy Carpenter, the surgery’s digital director, addressed concerns about potential AI oversights, stating, “I’d probably say the opposite actually. Currently, GPs spend about 80% of their time looking at screens during consultations. With AI handling note-taking, doctors can focus entirely on patients.” He reassured that all notes undergo thorough GP review before becoming part of the clinical record. Importantly, the AI is strictly limited to note-taking and is not used to analyze symptoms or generate diagnoses.
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Since its pilot launch in April, the AI note-taking system has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Carpenter noted, “Most patients appreciate the extra attention they get, and our GPs love it. They feel more productive and connected to their consultations.”
The trial will be evaluated in September, with support from the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to expand digital innovations across healthcare providers.