Clinic embraces AI to lessen GP loads

A GRANT from big four bank NAB is helping the Bendigo Primary Care Centre in Arnold Street introduce fully integrated artificial intelligence assisted documentation technology that could revolutionise patient care.

The industry-leading AI software provided by Lyrebird Health includes clinical safety protocols, data privacy protections and enhanced security measures to ensure patient trust and regulatory compliance.

BPCC general manager Callum Wright said the initiative is expected to transform how doctors work by eliminating time-consuming tasks.

“This software doesn’t replace the doctor or diminish the value of their training, experience and expertise,” he said.

“Instead, it acts as a support tool, allowing (them) to engage more fully with their patients without the distraction of typing contemporaneous notes.

“Good consultation notes are fundamental to great ongoing healthcare.

“With AI assisting in the documentation process, doctors can be more attentive to their patients’ needs while ensuring comprehensive and accurate medical records.”

Centre general practitioner Dr Robert Holian said positive results from trials over the past 12 months showed the impact on practitioners’ daily workload has been remarkable.

“The impact on our daily workload has been significant,” he said.

“The AI allows us to be more engaged with our patients and, importantly, reduces fatigue over the course of the day.”

Dr Holian stressed, however, that the use of the technology is entirely voluntary.

“Patients will be asked for consent at registration and again before each consultation,” he said.

“If they prefer not to use AI, their consultation will proceed as usual.”