Artificial Intelligence (AI) and your health care

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and your health care

We are committed to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) safely, responsibly and transparently to help improve the quality, safety and efficiency of the care we provide.

AI can support our staff by reducing administrative tasks, improving access to information and allowing clinicians to spend more time focusing on what matters most – caring for our patients.

We may use AI to support healthcare professionals; it does not replace their expertise, judgement or responsibility.

How do we use AI?

AI may be used to assist our staff with tasks such as: 

• Summarising clinical information
• Creating clinical documentation and letters
• Supporting administrative processes
• Assisting clinicians by presenting relevant information to aid decision-making

Any information produced by AI is always reviewed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Decisions about your care are never made by AI alone.

What is Ambient Voice Technology?

Ambient Voice Technology (AVT) is increasingly being used across the NHS to support consultations between clinicians and patients.

With your knowledge, the technology securely captures the conversation during your appointment and creates a draft clinical note and, where appropriate, letters for you and your GP.

This allows your clinician to focus on listening to you rather than typing notes throughout the consultation.

All information generated by the system is reviewed, checked and approved by your clinician before it becomes part of your medical record.

Is it safe?

Yes. Patient safety is our highest priority.

Any AI technology used within our hospitals undergoes appropriate governance, risk assessment and security checks before it is introduced into clinical practice.

We ensure that its use complies with UK data protection legislation, NHS guidance and our own information governance and clinical safety standards.

AI supports our clinicians – it does not replace them. A qualified healthcare professional remains responsible for all clinical decisions and the care you receive.

How is my information protected?

Your personal information remains confidential and is protected in the same way as the rest of your medical record. 

We follow strict NHS and UK legal requirements to ensure your information is stored securely and accessed only by authorised staff involved in your care.

Your information is not made publicly available or shared outside these arrangements without an appropriate legal basis.

Will I be informed and can I opt out?

Where AI is being used as part of your care, we will be open about how it is being used. Where a suitable alternative is available, you may choose to opt out.

Choosing not to use an AI-supported service will not affect your access to NHS care or the quality of treatment you receive. 

Questions or concerns?

If you would like more information about how AI is used within our hospitals, or if you wish to discuss opting out of a service that uses AI, please speak to a member of your health care team or contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS).

Telephone: 0300 123 1732 
Email: [email protected]