Australia’s federal government has raised privacy concerns over the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) scribes by doctors to record and summarise patient consultations.
The digital tools are becoming increasingly popular in GP clinics, helping reduce paperwork and allowing doctors to spend more time with patients.
However, health officials warn that the rapid adoption of the technology has outpaced regulations on patient privacy, consent, and data security.
Authorities are also concerned that some AI systems may store sensitive medical information overseas or operate without clear patient consent.
Regulators are now reviewing whether stronger safeguards and stricter oversight are needed to ensure patient information remains protected.
The warning comes as the use of AI scribes among Australian GPs has nearly doubled over the past year, highlighting the need to balance innovation with privacy and patient safety.
