Artificial intelligence has made several major leaps over the past few years. Currently, doctor visits are changing on the Allegheny Health Network system.
AHN develops surrounding clinical documentation technologies equipped with AI in practice.
AHN doctors, of course, use AI software over the phone to record AI conversations with patient permission.
They are mostly saved when taking notes.
“It's really amazing, it was transformative,” said Dr. James Solaba, AHN primary care doctor. “400 documents, 400 providers already use this software. This is over 40 specialisations.”
Last month, Ahn announced a partnership with Pittsburgh-based Abridge.
The company's software supports the system's physicians with daily documents when they meet patients.
“It really improves their efficiency,” Dr. Soraba said.
The process is simple. Solava says the doctor opens the app on the phone. The patient agrees that the software may be used.
He says that while some people are asking questions, the software is HIPAA compliant because the data collected is safe and secure behind the firewall.
The app will start recording the conversation. After the patient's visit after the end of the patient, the doctor clicks the button and the notes are generated within seconds.
“The technique is impressive,” Dr. Soraba said.
Bell Vernon's Chad Ware was used in a demo test seen only by KDKA on Friday. He's actually been there for ten years.
“It's amazing to see notes taken from technology alone,” he said.
Dr. Solaba says it leads to burnout and better happiness for clinicians. He said there is a lot of paperwork and charts, which extends to off-work time and weekends.
“It has helped us close our notes and finish all our papers on the exact same day,” he said.
He says the software also got a good mark from patients. Insights from Ahn's pilot program reported that 92% of patients said they felt the provider was more careful.
Doctors can focus more on their time when they make sure they are spending their time focusing on their computer screens and writing down notes.
“They can actually talk to doctors and get much better with doctors,” Dr. Soraba said.
When he comes to the doctor's office now, that's what the wear feels.
“The experience has been very good so far,” he said.
Dr. Solava has been using this since March 2024. He said Ahn is moving forward with migrating all doctors to its artificial intelligence platform.
Ahn is testing other areas where such techniques can be used, such as nutritionists. It is also used in the system's emergency rooms, outpatient spaces and acute care settings.
Dr. Solava added that Abridge is also trying to improve its software regularly.
“They are always on-site around the different facilities of the hospital and around the different offices,” he said.
Dr. Solava says that some of the next steps here with this software include getting into the hands of nurses and expanding their use in hospitals.
