New frameworks to help GP practices choose AI transcription providers

The Government has appointed a panel of approved providers of AI transcription tools that can be used by GP practices without a procurement process.

To date the framework, valid for two years, consists of 13 providers but is set to grow.

The list covers providers of AI scribing and ambient voice technology tools, which can be used for automated note-taking during patient consultation.

At the same time, NHS England has set up a registry for AI scribe and ambient voice tools. The list shows which products meet basic NHS safety and data rules, with signed-up suppliers having to prove they meet certain standards before being listed.

For GP practices, the registry sits alongside the new procurement framework: one to help buy the technology, and the other to help check it is safe. However, being on the registry doesn’t remove GP liability if something goes wrong – it will still be up to GPs to ensure the software’s notes are accurate.

Current NHS England guidance states GP practices ‘may still be liable’ for clinical negligence claims arising from the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and it advised that this can be ‘mitigated by clear and comprehensive contracting arrangements with suppliers setting out their roles, responsibilities and liability appropriately’.

AI use to transcribe clinical interactions featured prominently in the Government’s 10-year plan for the NHS in the summer, as a means to boosting NHS efficiency. However the interim BMA guidance has warned GPs of the risks of using AI tools while regulations are still in a ‘state of flux’.