AI Notetaking Could Change NHS Consultations
NHS clinicians may soon spend less time typing and more time speaking with patients. New AI note-taking tools aim to reduce paperwork during consultations and improve how appointments run.
These systems listen to conversations between clinicians and patients. They then create clinical notes automatically. As a result, doctors and nurses can focus more on care instead of screens.
NHS England Approves AI Notetaking Suppliers
NHS England has launched a new self-certified registry of approved AI notetaking providers. The list includes 19 suppliers of ambient voice technology.
These tools record consultations and generate live transcripts and clinical summaries. Importantly, each supplier meets NHS standards for safety, performance, and data protection.
Because of this, NHS organisations across England can now explore these tools with greater confidence. The move follows other recent AI projects, including tools designed to speed up prostate cancer diagnosis.
How AI Notetaking Works
AI notetaking, also known as AI scribing, automatically transcribes appointments. It then produces a clear clinical summary for review.
By cutting down manual note writing, clinicians can give patients more attention. In turn, consultations become more focused and less rushed.
On average, these tools save around two to three minutes per appointment. While that may sound small, it adds up across a full clinic day. Over time, this allows staff to see more patients or spend longer with each one.
NHS Leaders Support AI Adoption
Dr Alec Price Forbes, NHS England’s National Chief Clinical Information Officer, believes AI will play a major role in the NHS’s future.
He said AI tools can improve care quality, safety, and patient experience. At the same time, they can help staff work more efficiently.
He also stressed that AI note-taking reduces screen time during appointments. This helps clinicians stay engaged with patients rather than focusing on keyboards. NHS England is now supporting organisations to roll out the technology safely and effectively.
Evidence From NHS Pilot Studies
Last year, NHS England backed a large study on AI note-taking across nine NHS sites in London. The project was led by the innovation unit at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Researchers reviewed more than 17,000 patient interactions. These covered hospitals, GP practices, mental health services, and ambulance teams.
The findings were clear. Clinicians using AI notetaking spent 23.5 percent more time interacting directly with patients. In addition, appointment times fell by 8.2 percent on average.
Emergency departments saw strong results as well. They recorded a 13.4 percent increase in patients seen per shift.
What a National Rollout Could Mean
The study shows that AI note-taking can ease workload while improving care. With wider adoption, the NHS could also reduce costs and manage higher demand.
Now that the approved supplier registry is live, NHS teams have a clear path to adoption. They can choose tools that meet safety and evidence standards.
As use grows, clinicians may regain valuable time during consultations. Ultimately, this shift allows them to focus on what matters most: patient care.
