Empowering Health: Model for Sustainable AI Implementation

OntarioMD (OMD), a leader in digital health, focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to reduce administrative burden and enhance patient care in primary care. Building on 20 years of digital health experience, OMD has established an AI implementation strategy centred on collaboration and education. This multipronged strategy leads to a sustainable, effective and safe adoption of AI through collaboration with healthcare providers, patients, policymakers, technology vendors, and regulatory bodies by offering implementation toolkits and change management support to clinicians and fostering a culture of continuous learning, ensuring clinicians and patients are well-versed in AI. They are equipped with the necessary knowledge to leverage the AI-enabled tools. The success of the AI scribe pilots in Ontario exemplifies the value of this AI implementation strategy. Clinicians who participated in the pilot reported saving almost 4 hours per week on documentation by using AI scribes, and both primary care providers and patients reported improved engagement and rapport.