Some of our physicians have begun using an AI scribe during appointments. We want our patients to know what that means before they come in.
What an AI scribe does
An AI scribe listens to the conversation during your visit and drafts the clinical note that would otherwise be typed by hand. It does not diagnose, recommend treatment, or make any decision about your care. Its only job is to write down what was discussed.
Your physician reads, corrects and approves every note before it becomes part of your medical record. Nothing the scribe produces is filed without a physician reviewing it first.
Why we are doing this
Documentation takes a great deal of time, much of it during the appointment itself. Handing the typing to a scribe lets your physician look at you instead of a screen, and give you their full attention while you are in the room.
You can decline
Use of an AI scribe is entirely your choice. If you would prefer your physician not use one during your appointment, simply say so — at the front desk or once you are in the room. Your care will be exactly the same either way, and you do not need to give a reason.
Your privacy
Anything recorded or transcribed during your visit is health information, and is handled under Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act with the same confidentiality as the rest of your medical record. The finished note is stored in your chart in the usual way.
If you have questions about how the scribe works or what happens to the recording, please ask your physician or call us at 905-480-1050. We are happy to explain.