An AI scribe can reduce your documentation time. Here's how to get the most out of this new technology.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential to help family physicians in myriad ways going forward.1 One key way is in the form of AI virtual scribes — a time-saving technology broadly available through multiple vendors. Using a device such as a smartphone, the AI scribe program records the doctor-patient conversation during a medical visit and transcribes it into a structured note in the EHR, which the doctor can then review and finalize. Family physicians can use AI scribes in the office, emergency department, or inpatient setting to reduce their documentation burden, relieving a major cause of burnout and frustration.2
The following tips can make the process of using an AI scribe smoother and more comfortable.
KEY POINTS
- Before implementing an AI scribe, inform your staff and patients of the change and encourage them to ask questions about it.
- Obtain verbal or written patient consent prior to using the AI scribe. Creating a smartphrase in your EHR allows you to quickly document the patient's verbal consent prior to starting the AI tool.
- AI programs can produce errors (“hallucinations”) so be sure to review AI-generated notes for accuracy before signing off on them.
PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTATION
It's best not to spring this new technology on your patients and staff. A bit of preparation helps ensure buy-in.
1. Inform all team members when the practice will begin using the AI virtual scribe. Everyone from front-desk staff to medical assistants should understand the rationale for adopting the technology (e.g., to reduce documentation burden), so welcome discussion and questions at a team meeting.
2. Designate a staff member to introduce the AI system to patients. During the first year of implementation, language such as “We have a computer program that uses artificial intelligence to help us document patient visits” can prepare patients and allow them to think of specific questions while waiting. In some practices, front-desk staff can do this at check-in. In others, medical assistants may introduce the tool to patients during rooming. In either case, clinicians should be prepared to answer additional questions (see tip No. 4).
3. Make additional details about your AI scribe software readily available for patients who want to learn more. They may be curious about the benefits of this technology and what your practice is doing to mitigate potential harms (see tip No. 5). This could be as simple as placing information cards in waiting rooms and exam rooms.
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