The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network in New South Wales has launched an ‘Ambient Scribe Pilot,’ marking the beginning of their AI-Enabled General Practice Initiative. The project aims to evaluate the impact of AI scribes on GP workload, patient experience, and service delivery. Fourteen regional general practices have signed up for the initiative, reflecting a growing interest in AI scribes among Australian GPs.
Dr. Michelle Redford, the newly appointed medical director at HNECC PHN, highlighted the need to explore the potential benefits and risks associated with AI scribes. The initiative focuses solely on the use of existing AI scribe technology, not on decision support or other AI applications. Participating practices have the freedom to choose between popular AI scribe options like Lyrebird Health and Heidi Health.
While the initiative is still in its early stages, Dr. Redford emphasized the importance of collecting data to move beyond anecdotal evidence. The project includes short surveys to gather feedback on the uptake of AI scribes, attrition rates, and the impact on patient consultations. Dr. Redford’s team aims to assess whether AI scribes can alleviate the workload of GPs and enhance their work-life balance.
Dr. Rob Hosking, Chair of the RACGP – Practice and Technology Management Expert Committee, commended HNECC PHN’s pragmatic approach to evaluating AI scribes. He expressed interest in understanding the overall impact of AI scribes on GPs, including potential benefits and drawbacks. Dr. Hosking raised concerns about the potential loss of essential skills if GPs become overly reliant on AI scribes for note-taking.
Dr. Redford echoed Dr. Hosking’s sentiments, emphasizing that the full implications of AI scribes are yet to be fully grasped. She acknowledged that while the RACGP has provided guidance on AI scribes, many questions remain unanswered. The initiative seeks to contribute valuable insights to the broader understanding of AI scribe technology and its implications for general practice.
It is crucial for GPs to exercise caution when considering the adoption of AI scribes, given the evolving nature of this technology. The RACGP advises GPs to use their judgment when incorporating AI scribes into their practice. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, understanding the potential benefits and challenges of AI scribes is essential for healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, the initiative led by HNECC PHN underscores the growing interest in AI scribes within the general practice community. By evaluating the impact of AI scribes on GP workflow and patient care, the project aims to provide valuable insights that can inform future decisions regarding the integration of technology in healthcare settings.