How Group Health is using AI to help treat patients
The Group Health Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has introduced an AI scribe assistant to reduce administrative burdens for primary care providers, allowing doctors to focus fully on patient interactions. Patients have responded positively, and the tools—including AI-generated lab orders—are used optionally while ensuring provider oversight for privacy and accuracy.
The Group Health Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has begun using an AI-powered scribe assistant to help primary care providers reduce administrative workloads. CEO Lil Silvano noted that AI tools have been a priority request from physicians to ease front-end dictation tasks. Patients are informed upfront that their consultations are recorded for AI note-taking, with doctors reviewing and finalizing records before submission. The AI tool transcribes conversations in real time, generating visit notes by the time the physician leaves the exam room. Dr. Jodie Stewart, president and CEO of the Algoma District Medical Group, said this allows doctors to remain fully engaged with patients without distractions. Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with most supporting the technology to improve care efficiency. The AI system is optional, and patients can opt out. Stewart emphasized that privacy and safety protocols are in place, requiring manual review of all AI-generated records before submission. Another AI tool assists with lab orders, proposing suggestions for provider approval rather than automating decisions. Stewart reported mixed but positive results from providers, with some experiencing significant time savings and others noting reduced fatigue. Overall, the tools have increased capacity by streamlining workflows. The centre continues to monitor feedback while ensuring compliance with healthcare standards.
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