Government backs AI scribes and diagnostic tools for GP practices in NHS 10-year plan

Government to Support AI Tools Rollout in GP Practices Over the Next Two Years

The Government has announced plans to support the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) transcribing tools in general practitioner (GP) practices within the next two years. This initiative is part of the NHS’s 10-year plan, aiming to save clinicians valuable time and improve patient care.

Local trials have demonstrated that ambient voice technology (AVT) can save one to two minutes per GP appointment. Based on these findings, the Government will conduct a framework procurement process to ensure safe adoption of these AI tools across GP practices.

Phased AI Implementation from 2027

Starting in 2027, the NHS plans to roll out validated AI diagnostic and administrative tools nationwide. This includes AI scribes designed to automate clinical note-taking, letter drafting, and manual data entry—tasks that currently consume significant clinician time.

Recent guidance recommends that GP practices appoint a clinical safety officer, who will undergo two days of training before introducing AI transcription tools. Additionally, NHS England has emphasized that only AVT compliant with its standards should be used.

Efficiency Gains and Increased Capacity

The plan estimates that saving just 90 seconds per appointment could free up over 2,000 full-time equivalent GP hours. This increase in capacity would enable more appointments, greater convenience for patients, and improved continuity of care, especially for those with complex health needs.

AI scribes will reduce unnecessary administrative and clerical work, allowing clinicians to focus more on patient care. By automating routine tasks, AI has the potential to improve staff experience and increase job satisfaction.

Scaling Up and Support for Providers

Some GP practices and hospitals are already using these technologies, but the challenge lies in scaling adoption across the NHS. To address this, the Government will provide support and a procurement framework accessible to all NHS organizations during 2026-2027, ensuring safe and efficient technology rollout.

Enhancements to the NHS App

The NHS App will be expanded with a new tool called My NHS GP, which will use AI algorithms to handle non-urgent care enquiries. Patients will be able to describe symptoms or concerns and receive personalized guidance based on their input.

By 2028, this AI-enabled feature aims to help patients find appropriate care options, reducing pressure on urgent care services like A&E. It is important to note that this tool will not replace emergency services such as 999.

Additionally, an AI feature within the NHS App will assist patients in discussing health issues and help guide GP consultations.

Expert Views and Challenges Ahead

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, welcomed the focus on technology but stressed the need for evidence-based and rigorous evaluation before AI diagnostic tools are widely adopted. She also highlighted ongoing challenges with NHS IT infrastructure, which remains slow and inefficient in many practices.

Sarah Woolnough, chief executive of The King’s Fund, noted that past NHS technology announcements often fell short in delivery due to funding being diverted elsewhere. She emphasized that the current plan’s success depends on improving IT systems so staff can spend less time on technical issues and more time on clinical care.

NHS England has also reminded GP practices that they may still be liable for clinical negligence claims related to AI use, underscoring the need for careful implementation and oversight.

Conclusion

The Government’s plan to introduce AI tools in GP practices aims to reduce administrative burdens and increase clinical capacity. With proper support, training, and infrastructure improvements, AI technologies could make a meaningful difference in primary care delivery over the next several years.

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