Health technology, AI improving patient care and health in general practice: GP24

GPs across Australia are using new technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve patient care and health outcomes, delegates at Australia’s premier GP conference will hear today. 

The Royal Australia College of GPs (RACGP) annual conference GP24 kicks off today at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre – this year’s three-day conference explores the future of general practice care, new technologies and research that can shape the way GPs care for their communities.  

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said: “GPs across Australia are using new technologies including AI to get better health outcomes for their patients and improve patient care. 

“AI has great potential to revolutionise medicine, but regulation is key to ensure patient safety. And GPs need to be involved in the regulation, development and implementation of AI solutions in healthcare to ensure they are safe and fulfill their potential to improve patient health outcomes and care 

“While AI has great potential in medicine, we must remember that it cannot replace GPs – there’s simply no substitute for the quality care you get from a GP who knows you, and your history.  

“What AI can do is support the work GPs do, and reduce time spent on administrative tasks, so we can focus more on patient care.  

“Australia’s GPs should be empowered to adopt AI that supports our work, such as AI scribes which can automate clinical note taking. 

“At GP24, we will explore AI tools for record management and clinical records, and many other innovations and developments in digital health and research to improve health outcomes and optimise practice.  

“GPs see how innovations in general practice are benefiting patients, such as telehealth and e-scripts. And with the rapid advancement of new technologies, the future of general practice care in Australia is full of opportunities.” 

Australia’s Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care the Hon. Mark Butler and Western Australia's Minister for Health and Mental Health, the Hon. Amber-Jade Sanderson will attend GP24 today to speak to GPs, GPs in training, medical students and junior doctors from across Australia.   

GPs will also hear from keynote speaker Dr Jordan Nguyen, a leading Australian engineer and innovator who designs life-changing technologies for people with disabilities and the elderly.