Evaluating artificial intelligence ambient voice technology as a documentation assistant in psychiatry: proof-of-concept study

BJPsych Bull. 2025 Dec 1:1-8. doi: 10.1192/bjb.2025.10186. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

AIMS AND METHOD: Artificial intelligence ambient voice technology (AI AVT), which uses a large language model to summarise clinical dialogue into electronic notes and GP letters, has emerged. We conducted a mixed-methods, pre-post (manual versus AVT-assisted documentation) service development pilot to evaluate its use in a child and adolescent out-patient clinic.

RESULTS: The median administration time per clinical encounter reduced from 27 min (manual) to 10 min (AVT) (P < 0.001). On average, AVT-assisted documentation required only 45% of the time for manual documentation (P < 0.001). Clinician-rated accuracy, quality and efficiency were significantly higher for AVT-assisted documentation. Patient acceptance was high, with 97% reporting that clinicians were not distracted by note-taking. Thematic analysis from focus groups identified positive effects derived from AVT (improved productivity and clinician well-being), but was balanced by barriers (technological limitations).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Integration of AVT into clinical workflows can significantly alleviate documentation burden, reduce cognitive strain and free up clinical capacity.

PMID:41321068 | DOI:10.1192/bjb.2025.10186