This fifth feature in a six-part series examines how AI is transforming medical research and treatments, particularly in the UK. The challenge of getting a GP appointment and the brevity of consultations due to doctors' increasing workloads is a common issue. Dr. Deepali Misra-Sharp, a GP partner in Birmingham, uses AI to streamline administrative tasks, allowing her to focus more on patient interactions. By implementing Heidi Health, an AI-assisted transcription tool, her note-taking has improved, leading to better consultations and reducing errors. With a growing patient load and a declining workforce, GPs face immense pressure. Currently, a full-time GP in the UK is responsible for 2, 273 patients, up 17% since 2015, according to the British Medical Association. AI presents a potential solution, with research indicating it can help reduce administrative burdens and mitigate burnout. Health Education England's 2019 report suggested AI could save a minimal amount of time per consultation, translating into millions of hours saved annually. A study by Oxford University found that 44% of all general practice administrative tasks could be automated. One company, Denmark's Corti, developed AI to aid healthcare consultations by suggesting follow-up questions and automating note-taking. Corti's technology processes around 150, 000 patient interactions daily across Europe and the US.

Lars Maaløe, Corti's co-founder, notes that AI can also provide insights based on a patient's historical data. However, the question arises whether patients are comfortable having technology record their conversations. Maaløe assures that patient data remains secure within the system. Dr. Misra-Sharp finds patients generally accepting of the technology. Across England, 1, 400 GP practices use "C the Signs, " an AI platform analyzing medical records for cancer risk factors. The AI, based on medical research papers, recommends actions without diagnosing, facilitating GP efficiency. Dr. Bea Bakshi, CEO of "C the Signs, " reports substantial success in risk assessments. The British Medical Association acknowledges AI's potential but warns of risks like bias, error, and privacy concerns. While AI can enhance GP services, it isn't a complete solution. Alison Dennis of Taylor Wessing emphasizes caution, stressing that AI tools need to be validated and regulated for clinical use. For practitioners like Misra-Sharp, AI has renewed their enjoyment of consultations by alleviating time pressures, although careful implementation is crucial.