Hong Kong hospitals to trial generative AI for medical report writing

Six public hospitals in Hong Kong will begin trials of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) for writing medical reports next month, according to Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority, Tony Ko Pat-sing.

Ko said that the Hospital Authority (HA) aims to fulfill 80 percent of medical report requests within eight weeks, believing that Gen AI will significantly expedite this process. 

The initiative is part of a broader effort to implement the 31 recommendations from the Review Committee on the Management of the Public Hospital System.

The HA on Thursday outlined its commitment to enhancing medical technology, prioritizing employee and patient feedback, and improving service quality and safety. 

Ko indicated that many of these initiatives will be completed or initiated within six months, with updates on progress to be shared with the public.

To improve patient access to medical report services, the HA plans to introduce electronic applications and payments through HA GO. 

The first phase will target patient-initiated requests for medical reports, set to launch in the 2025/26 fiscal year, with applicants receiving confirmation that reports are expected within eight weeks.

Ko highlighted the advantages of Gen AI in saving doctors time and ensuring consistency in medical records and report formats. 

Trials will take place at Princess Margaret Hospital, Caritas Medical Centre, United Christian Hospital, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and Tin Shui Wai Hospital.

Previously, doctors had to manually search for records of surgeries and tests when writing reports. 
With Gen AI, relevant clinical information can be quickly located and drafted. 

Ko said: “Gen AI can significantly reduce the time needed to find results, allowing doctors to draft a brief summary and let the system assist in completing the report.”

He reassured that all reports will be thoroughly checked and authorized by the doctors themselves, ensuring accuracy and accountability. 

Ko also said that the Gen AI system was developed internally by the HA, with robust measures in place to secure personal information.

The HA is also fostering a “Dare to Speak Out” culture by encouraging staff members to use the self-developed instant messaging app, “HA Chat,” to share their opinions or report issues to any HA employee or department.

When asked how to protect employees who speak out, Ko said that they can choose to express their opinions either publicly or anonymously, with multiple channels and methods available.

Ko added that sharing feedback through the app is designed to ensure prompt follow-up and enhance team spirit. 

He also reassured employees that there is no need to worry about negative consequences.

(Cheng Wong)