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. 2025 Jan;23(1):44-48.
doi: 10.1176/appi.focus.20240024. Epub 2025 Jan 15.

Artificial Intelligence Scribes in Psychiatry

Affiliations

Artificial Intelligence Scribes in Psychiatry

Patrick Buckley et al. Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ). 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) scribes for clinical documentation are likely to be among the first AI tools to affect the day-to-day practice of psychiatry, yet many psychiatrists are unfamiliar with them. This article introduces psychiatrists to AI scribes, including their potential benefits and risks. AI scribes may enhance efficiency, reduce physician burnout, and improve patient-physician rapport by automating documentation processes. Key concerns include privacy, accuracy, and the ability to capture nuanced patient communication. Initial recommendations for responsibly integrating AI scribes into psychiatric practice are provided, emphasizing the importance of balancing technological benefits with careful oversight.

Keywords: AI scribe; Artificial intelligence; burnout, physician issues; computers.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report no financial relationships with commercial interests.

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