Reclaiming the primary care consultation for patients and clinicians: is AI-enabled ambient voice technology the answer?

Our recent article in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine discusses the potential role of AI-enabled ambient voice technology in healthcare and the implications for doctors and patients. While interest in ambient voice technology , particularly in primary care, continues to grow, evidence regarding its feasibility, acceptability and real-world impact in primary care remains limited. This includes data on cost, staff training and implementation (including integration with current electronic medical record systems).

Questions also remain about how ambient voice technology handles complex consultations, including with non-native English speakers, and its broader integration into routine practice. As ambient voice technology develops, further research is needed to assess its usability, acceptability, feasibility, cost-effectiveness and unintended effects on clinical interactions and decision-making. If demonstrated to be effective, ambient voice technology could become a transformative tool in advancing the government’s 10 Year Health Plan for England.

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