The UK government has announced successful trials of an artificial intelligence tool designed for note-taking during patient consultations within the NHS, particularly in London.

Recent statistics reveal that GP surgeries conducted 31.4 million appointments in March 2025, a 6.1% increase from the previous year, alongside a reduction of 219,000 patients on waiting lists, partly attributed to advancements in AI.

This initiative is part of a larger effort to address NHS waiting lists and improve healthcare service efficiency through digital transformation.

As part of a broader 'Plan for Change,' the NHS is implementing ambient voice technology (AVT) to enhance efficiency and reduce administrative burdens for clinicians, ultimately enabling faster appointments and improved patient care.

Dr. Vin Diwakar, National Director of Transformation at NHS England, highlighted that this technology could significantly decrease administrative workloads, thereby enhancing the quality of patient care.

Initial data analysis shows that AVTs allow clinicians to spend more time with patients rather than typing, improving care and efficiency, especially in emergency departments.

The pilot program involved over 7,000 patients and successfully utilized AVTs to draft clinic notes and letters, which were then reviewed by doctors before being securely uploaded to electronic health records.

The Jean Bishop Integrated Care Centre in East Hull has successfully implemented ambient scribing technology, leading to improved documentation processes and enhanced patient care for those living with frailty.

Patient safety and data privacy remain top priorities, with guidance emphasizing compliance, risk assessment, and proper staff training for the use of AI.

Dr. Maaike Kusters from Great Ormond Street Hospital emphasized the importance of accurate documentation while maintaining face-to-face engagement with patients during consultations.

She noted that the technology improved her ability to engage with patients by allowing her to focus on them rather than being distracted by typing.

NHS leaders express optimism about the potential of AI to transform healthcare delivery and enhance the overall experience for both patients and medical staff.