AI on the Ward

AI is becoming a normal part of clinical work, according to a survey from healthcare AI company Heidi.

The survey asked 1,823 clinicians across 25 countries about admin pressure, AI use and trust.

It found that 86% now use AI daily or several times a week, while fewer than 2% have never used it.

The main reason is the growing admin burden.

Around 76% said their workload has increased in recent years, and more than eight in ten spend over an hour a day on admin outside patient care.

Documentation was named as the biggest challenge by 88% of respondents.

This pressure is also affecting patient time.

Nearly three-quarters said admin reduces the time they can spend with patients, while 78% regularly work beyond manageable hours.

Many clinicians are now using AI scribes, general chatbots and research tools to cut down paperwork.

More than half said saving time on admin was their main reason for adopting AI.

The survey also found that experienced clinicians are using the technology heavily.

Those with more than 21 years in practice reported higher daily AI use than clinicians with five years or less.

However, employer support appears limited.

Around 83% said they are using AI without guidance on approved tools, safety or governance.

Accuracy remains the biggest concern, cited by 68% of respondents, followed by patient privacy at 59%.

Despite this, 75% said patients are generally open to AI being used in their care.

AI may also help clinicians stay in the profession for longer.

Around 73% said it is making their careers more manageable, while 56% said it supports better patient follow-up.

Heidi says healthcare organisations now need clearer rules, safer systems and better support for staff already using these tools.

Less paperwork, more healthcare. - MV