NHS warns against non-compliant AI transcription tools in clinical use

5 days ago 5
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The national health authority warned that using non-compliant systems could risk data breaches, patient safety, financial loss, and disruption to digital strategy.

GPs have adopted AI transcription tools that fail to meet NHS safety standards. (Photo: chrisdorney/Shutterstock)

NHS England has instructed healthcare providers to stop using AI transcription tools that fail to meet national standards. Following an investigation, Sky News reported that some Ambient Voice Technology (AVT) systems being used in patient consultations do not meet NHS governance requirements on data protection and clinical safety.

A letter from the national chief clinical information officer, cited in the report, stated that several AVT solutions were still in widespread use within clinical practice despite being non-compliant. It also noted that a number of AVT suppliers had been approaching NHS organisations, although many of these vendors had not met the basic governance standards set by the NHS.

NHS England cautioned that continued use of these non-compliant systems could lead to data breaches, safety risks, financial exposure, and misalignment with the government’s national digital strategy. Recently, a cyber intrusion had reportedly exposed patient data at University College London Hospitals and University Hospital Southampton, after attackers exploited a newly identified software vulnerability.

According to Sky News, concerns have been raised by healthcare leaders over the limited capacity of NHS clinicians to assess whether AI tools meet safety and privacy standards.

“We need that help and support from those who can check that the products are safe, check they’re secure, that they’re suitable for use in the consulting room, and NHS England should do that and help and support us,” said British Medical Association’s GP committee deputy chair David Wrigley, as reported by the media outlet.

The report also noted that some AVT platforms used in the NHS have been developed in line with required standards. Earlier this year, NHS England issued guidance supporting the adoption of AVT to reduce administrative workload and free up clinician time. While endorsing the use of such tools, the document outlined strict governance and safety requirements, including data security protocols, patient confidentiality measures, and compliance with clinical safety standards.

The guidance, published in April in coordination with the Department of Health and Social Care, is part of a broader strategy to integrate advanced AI technologies across NHS services. It promotes systems capable of converting spoken clinical interactions into structured medical documentation, with applicability in both general practices and hospitals.

Trial data referenced in the document indicate that these tools can reduce time spent on administrative tasks, contribute to shorter consultations, and improve clinical capacity, particularly in high-demand environments such as emergency departments. AVT plays a central role by enabling real-time transcription of clinician–patient conversations into medical notes and related correspondence. The AI initiative forms part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, which aims to address systemic challenges in the health sector, including the reduction of waiting lists. The guidance also places emphasis on data protection, security protocols, and the need for adequate training to ensure the safe deployment of such technologies in clinical practice.

Read more: UK government unveils AI guidelines to streamline NHS operations

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