There are numerous ways in which artificial intelligence makes medical professionals’ jobs easier and more efficient. More importantly, AI can improve patient outcomes.
In some cases, however, does AI pose added patient risks? That’s the question the medical community must regularly ask.
For example, there’s an AI tool that translates doctor-patient conversations so that doctors can focus on their patients while they’re talking rather than worry about taking notes. It also saves time, which is critical when doctors are often limited in how long they can spend with each patient and are required to see a specific number every day.
What one pilot program found
One university medical center piloted a special application that doctors used during outpatient clinic visits (with their permission) that used different types of AI for taking clinical notes. The physician who ran the program concluded that it saved up to four minutes per patient visit. He noted, “That’s time the physician can use to connect with the patient, do education and make sure they understand the plan going forward.” The program also found that patient satisfaction ratings increased with the use of AI to take clinical notes.
While about three-quarters of the patients who participated in the program thought it could help reduce medical errors, almost as many also expressed some concern about how introducing AI into patient visits could compromise their privacy.
Immediate review of the notes is crucial
It’s crucial that if doctors use AI to take notes during patient visits, they ensure that the notes are accurate. While doctors have reported relatively few errors – and not serious ones – it’s still important for doctors to review the notes and correct any errors as soon as possible while the conversations are fresh in their minds.
Otherwise, inaccuracies can end up in their electronic health records (EHR) and lead to serious issues down the road. With time at a premium, however, how many doctors are going to review those notes before they move on to the next patient?
If there’s an error or something missing in these notes that results in harm to a patient, ultimately the doctor is responsible. It’s crucial for patients and their families to understand that in most cases of medical negligence and error, human beings are at fault – not the tools they rely on. Having experienced legal guidance in a case of potential medical malpractice can help people hold the appropriate party(ies) liable.
