The introduction of the ambient AI scribe technology in select VA medical centers marks a significant shift in the way Veterans experience healthcare. This innovative tool, developed by the Digital Health Office (DHO) of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), allows healthcare providers to focus more on interactions with patients rather than being distracted by typing on computers. By working quietly in the background, the ambient AI scribe generates notes from conversations, thereby enhancing the overall experience for Veterans seeking care.
According to Donna Hill, director of Operations for AI and Emerging Technologies at the DHO, Veterans have expressed greater satisfaction with interactions when they feel engaged in a real conversation rather than speaking to someone who is busy typing. One Veteran noted, “My provider would look me in the eye and have an actual conversation.” This sentiment underscores the importance of human connection in healthcare, particularly for those who have served in the military.
Understanding Ambient AI Scribe Technology
The ambient AI scribe is designed to listen to discussions between healthcare providers and patients, generating progress notes that are subsequently reviewed and edited by the providers before being added to the Veteran’s electronic health record (EHR). This technology not only reduces the paperwork burden on providers but also aims to improve the accuracy of the visit documentation, allowing for a more personalized care experience for Veterans.
Dr. Priya Joshi, an internist at the San Francisco VA, emphasized the technology’s impact, stating that it enables healthcare providers to give Veterans their full attention during critical moments. The technology adheres to strict privacy and security standards, fully compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Importantly, Veterans can opt to use the tool during their appointments and can choose to opt out at any time.
Real Benefits for Veterans and Providers
Preliminary feedback from Veterans participating in early pilot programs indicates that the ambient AI scribe enhances their clinic visits by making them feel more personal and focused. Many reported fewer interruptions during consultations and found that the after-visit summaries, generated by the AI, were clearer and easier to understand. This improvement helps Veterans grasp their care plans better.
Healthcare providers have also noticed significant advantages from using the ambient AI scribe. One provider remarked that for the first time in three years, they were able to return home in time for dinner with their family, illustrating the tool’s capacity to alleviate the extensive time spent on documentation. Providers shared that the ambient AI scribe:
- Reduces after-hours documentation.
- Helps capture details more accurately.
- Lowers cognitive load during busy clinic days.
- Supports clinical decision-making with suggested codes and summaries.
In essence, the ambient AI scribe helps healthcare providers dedicate more time to patient care instead of administrative tasks.
Trust and Expansion of AI in Veteran Care
The implementation of ambient AI scribe is a reflection of the VA’s commitment to enhancing care delivery through responsible and safe AI solutions. Veterans have shown a positive outlook towards this tool, believing it enhances service delivery by promoting better patient-provider interactions. One provider noted that “having an accurate record factor into making this the safest experience possible.”
Since its launch in October 2025, the ambient AI scribe technology is set to expand to all VA medical centers across the country in 2026, aiming to strengthen the overall Veteran care experience. As the integration of AI technologies continues to evolve, this initiative signals a new era in healthcare that prioritizes connection and quality of care for Veterans.
For more information on the VA’s innovative efforts in AI and digital health solutions, visit Explore AI at VA.
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