Silke Mayr Should artificial intelligence (AI) play a bigger role in supporting GPs with consultations and admin tasks? Many people in the UK struggle to book GP appointments, and even when they succeed, the increasing demands on doctors often result in shorter consultations.
Dr. Deepali Misra-Sharp, a GP partner in Birmingham, has experienced significant relief from AI technology. Using Heidi Health, a free AI-powered medical transcription tool, she has reduced her administrative burden and refocused on patient care.
“When I’m with a patient, I usually take notes, which interrupts the consultation,” Dr. Misra-Sharp explains. “Now, I can spend the entire appointment engaging directly with the patient, improving the quality of care.”
The tool has saved her two to three minutes per consultation by automating note-taking and reducing errors. With fewer doctors and more patients, this efficiency boost is critical. According to the British Medical Association (BMA), each full-time GP now serves an average of 2,273 patients, a 17% rise since 2015.
Could AI Be the Answer to GP Burnout?
Some research indicates AI could help reduce administrative tasks for GPs. A 2019 report by Health Education England estimated that even saving one minute per patient could free up 5.7 million hours of GP time. A 2020 Oxford University study suggested 44% of GP administrative work could be automated.
Denmark-based Corti is among the companies developing solutions. Their AI listens to consultations, provides prompts, and automates note-taking. “The goal is to let doctors spend more time with patients,” says Lars Maaløe, Corti’s CTO. The AI also suggests follow-up questions and reviews patient history, offering reminders like, “Did you check if their knee pain persists?”
However, concerns exist about privacy. Mr. Maaløe stresses that patient data remains within the system, and patients must give consent. Dr. Misra-Sharp shares her experience: “I inform patients about the tool, and none have objected so far.”
AI also supports cancer detection. Over 1,400 GP practices in England use C the Signs, which analyzes symptoms, history, and risk factors. Its CEO, Dr. Bea Bakshi, explains, “The AI can flag risks, like pancreatic cancer, and suggest further tests, empowering doctors to act faster.” The system has conducted over 400,000 cancer risk assessments, identifying more than 30,000 cases across 50 cancer types.
Risks and Opportunities in AI Adoption
AI’s potential to transform healthcare is clear, but caution is needed. Dr. Katie Bramall-Stainer of the BMA acknowledges AI’s promise but warns of risks like bias and errors. Alison Dennis, a legal expert, highlights the need for robust regulation. “AI tools must use validated data and secure patient information to avoid harm or data misuse,” she notes.
For GPs like Dr. Misra-Sharp, AI has already transformed their work. “It allows me to enjoy consultations again, without the constant pressure of time,” she says.
AI may not solve every issue, but it offers valuable support to doctors navigating the challenges of modern healthcare.