OMD Patient Consent Toolkit

In Ontario, obtaining valid consent from patients before primary care physicians use AI scribe technology is important in order to uphold key privacy principles, and maintain patient trust. OMD has developed a tool to support physicians with this process. The OMD Patient Consent Toolkit provides: 

• A sample written consent form that can be used by clinics to provide to patients before AI scribe is used 
• A script doctors can use prior to the AI scribe tool being turned on 
• Additional material that can be added to clinic policies regarding the use of AI scribe 

Valid consent ensures patients are fully informed about how their health data will be used, stored, and processed by AI scribe systems. AI scribe tools assist physicians by helping to document patient encounters. Without clear patient approval, using such technology risks violating privacy laws under the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), which mandates transparency and accountability in handling personal health data. 

A transparent consent process also empowers patients, allowing them to make choices about their healthcare interactions. By openly discussing the role of AI scribe technology, physicians foster a collaborative environment where patients feel respected and valued. Transparency about the involvement of AI clarifies its limitations and the safeguards that protect personal information.

Consent-based practices build a foundation for trust, critical for the successful adoption of new technologies. Prioritizing patient engagement builds confidence in the healthcare system. Ontario’s healthcare providers demonstrate their  adherence to legal frameworks and respect for individual rights—paving the way for responsible integration of AI in primary care settings.