17 Sep 2025
Unintended consequences of using ambient scribes in general practice
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Abi Eccles and colleagues argue that better evidence is crucial to ensure widespread adoption of ambient scribes does not compromise quality of care
Ambient scribes have rapidly attracted international interest among healthcare practitioners, researchers, and commercial providers,12 with over 100 companies estimated to be providing ambient scribes in healthcare settings worldwide.3 Also known as ambient voice technologies or digital scribes, ambient scribes transcribe consultations in real time and generate summaries for use in patients’ notes.12 Some can order tests or draft referral letters, and they may soon be able to generate advice or tailored prompts during consultations.