AI - How long before it's coming to a surgery near you?

[RedApple]

Some clinicians are using AI to write health records. What do you need to know?

Imagine this. You’ve finally summoned up the courage to see a GP about an embarrassing problem. You sit down. The GP says:

before we start, I’m using my computer to record my appointments. It’s AI – it will write a summary for the notes and a letter to the specialist. Is that OK?

Wait – AI writing our medical records? Why would we want that?

Records are essential for safe and effective health care. Clinicians must make good records to keep their registration. Health services must provide good record systems to be accredited. Records are also legal documents: they can be important in insurance claims or legal actions.

But writing stuff down (or dictating notes or letters) takes time. During appointments, clinicians can have their attention divided between good record-keeping and good communication with the patient. Sometimes clinicians need to work on records after hours, at the end of an already-long day.

Read the full article here:

theconversation.com/some-cl...

[nightingale-56]

I would ask for a copy to be sent to me as well, so I could edit it if necessary.

[RedApple in reply to nightingale-56]

Years ago, I asked to see the notes my doctor made at my previous appointment. The receptionist checked the records. No notes. Yes, the appointment had taken place, but the GP hadn't made any notes about it. None at all. So neither he, nor me, could refer back to what had been discussed previously. At least if AI is in charge, there would be some notes!

[nightingale-56 in reply to RedApple]

I suspect the GP would not like my answer sand would refuse it anyway. As you say it would at least keep you both in the picture as to what was said.

[helvella]

Just an observation - if a microphone is picking up the conversation, it could just as well be saved in audio.

I'd have less concern if I knew an audio version was also retained so that any AI notes could be compared and checked.

Having played about with some of the simple AI tools a little, its ability to get things amazingly wrong is impressive. And without audio, there is no possibility of correction, of feedback into the system, etc.

[humanbean]

I am not particularly worried about AI writing my medical records. Not because I think they will do a good job (I don't), but because having medical records which are a dreadful representation of my health problems all my life is something I am used to.

The inaccuracies in my medical records are shocking. And getting an appointment to see a doctor is just not possible. So, I'll admit it. I've just given up.