It seems like Australian doctors are ready to get on board with AI and use it to help better their clinical practices. First, and most importantly, is the software from Melbourne-based software firm, Heidi Health. This cutting-edge AI scribe solution is changing healthcare providers’ approach to patient visit documentation. General practitioners, surgeons, psychiatrists, pediatricians—they’re all cashing in on this breakthrough technology. For instance, last week alone, Heidi Health’s software was used in about 200,000 consultations throughout the country.
Dr. Grant Blashki, a general practitioner at a Melbourne clinic, has integrated Heidi Health’s AI scribe into his practice for the last year. He relies on this technology to ensure he can make each appointment. He sometimes wonders how he would be able to carry out his consultations without it. The software automatically analyzes user conversations and creates notes from consultations, thanks to a unique software functionality called “Making Magic.”
The Role of AI in Clinical Practice
Heidi Health’s AI scribe tool has become a critical component for about 50 percent of the doctors at Dr. Blashki’s clinic. The software automates the process of taking those notes. This saves clinicians time, letting them spend more of it delivering high-quality care to their patients.
Dr Blashki said patient consent was paramount when using the software. “I do ask for consent. Occasionally, they opt out of using it altogether, and that’s just fine. To most everyone it’s very comfortable, and it is really sexy in terms of making our work much more efficient,” he says.
Heidi Health’s technology aims to summarize clinical encounters accurately while reflecting the doctor’s lines of questioning and using appropriate clinical terminology. For Dr. Thomas Kelly, CEO and co-founder of Heidi Health, the software provides considerably more than a high-level overview. Its power lies in its ability to identify the clinical rationale driving a clinician’s inquiries.
Data Security and Patient Privacy
Despite these advantages of a deeper integration of AI within the healthcare sphere, concerns over data security and patient privacy are still top of mind. Dr. Kelly assures that all data processed through Heidi Health is protected according to “the highest enterprise standards that exist.” The company submits to regular audits by independent third parties to certify its compliance with strict EU data protection regulations.
Dr. Blashki takes measures to safeguard patient information by deleting all transcriptions off the Heidi Health AI software after use. Yet the pervasive use of digital tools and remote engagement has introduced unexpected risks, particularly around data exposure. John Lalor, an expert in data privacy, cautions that more patient data makes better AI models. At the same time, he emphasizes that this could open up major privacy threats if the data is exposed or breached.
Heidi Health has supplied written answers to questions explaining their efforts to protect patient privacy but have refused multiple requests for an on-the-record interview.
The Future of AI in Healthcare
As technology progresses rapidly, healthcare providers must consider the benefits and risks of implementing AI within their practice. Still, though a few hold out with concerns about what hurdles lie ahead, a lot more rediscover the promise AI tools bring—especially ones like Heidi Health’s scribe.
Mr. Van Lieshout of Heidi Health agrees and points out a need for transparency around what data is being used for. “Making sure that the firms are clear with how exactly the data is being used is crucial,” he states. Unclear language might result in a misinterpretation of the sharing and use of patient data.
Dr. Blashki is very keen to stress the need to maintain patient confidentiality. He emphasizes how notes about patient encounters can include sensitive matters, such as infectious diseases or personal social issues that people might not want exposed.
