Use AI principles to gain full benefits of voice technology, CSP tells members

The think tank said the innovation, which uses AI to record conversations and convert them into patient records, letters and other documentation, could ‘radically transform’ the health service. 

If done right, the analysis found, the tech could bring huge benefits for patient care and working conditions for staff. 

However, it also noted problems interacting with electronic patient records and a lack of transparent metrics that could measure the impact of AVT. 

Responding, CSP director of practice and development Ash James welcomed both the excitement and caution in the report. 

He said: ‘We know the potential here for huge time savings, reduced frustration for clinicians but also greater collaboration with patients about their care. 

‘For me there remain three big questions, though; 

'The first being about how this can be implemented at scale and in a safe and sustainable way, given the technical barriers our members report simply trying to log-on at times, and some members still utilising paper notes. We must get the basics right first.  

‘Secondly, and as with any new tech, we also need to ensure staff are given the time and support to learn how to use it properly. Without staff buy-in it will not be utilised successfully. 

'And thirdly that it reduces rather than reinforces health inequalities. AVT in particular has some way to go in recognising languages and accents in an equitable way, with consistent error rates still prevalent.  

‘There needs to be a significant investment in time and money to ensure it is a success. 

‘I would urge all members to look at the CSP’s AI principles when implementing AVT in their local areas to ensure it is done in a safe, sustainable and effective way.’