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Using technology to support your care

At Boston Children’s Hospital, we use technology to help your care team document visits more efficiently and accurately. Our new ambient clinical documentation system securely captures and transcribes conversations during your appointment, allowing providers to focus on you, rather than on typing or paperwork.

What Is ambient clinical documentation?

Ambient clinical documentation is a process where secure technology records and transcribes your conversation with your care team during a visit. This information is then used to help create an accurate medical note for your health record.

How does it work?

  • With your knowledge and consent, your conversation is recorded during your appointment.
  • The recording is processed by secure technology that transcribes and summarizes the information.
  • Your provider reviews and finalizes the clinical note before it is added to your medical record.
  • No outside humans listen to your conversation — only your authorized care team can access the medical note.

What are the benefits?

  • Better focus: Your provider can spend more time listening and talking with you, and less time on the computer.
  • Accurate records: Important details from your visit are captured and included in your medical record.
  • Timely care: Notes are completed quickly, which can help your care team coordinate your care.

Your privacy is important

  • Only your care team has access to your medical note.
  • No outside humans review or listen to your recorded conversation.
  • All information is HIPAA-compliant, and it’s protected according to Boston Children’s strict privacy and security standards.
  • Recordings are automatically deleted after 30 days.
  • Participation is always your choice.

What to expect during your visit

  • Your provider will explain how ambient clinical documentation works and ask for your permission before starting any recording.
  • Only the conversation needed to create your medical note is recorded.
  • If you do not wish to participate, simply let your provider know.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Ambient clinical documentation is optional. You can ask your provider not to record your visit at any time.

Yes. Your privacy is protected by strict security measures. Only authorized care team members can access your medical note.

No. No outside humans review or listen to your conversation. The recording is used only to help create your clinical note.

All recordings are deleted automatically after 90 days.

No. This technology helps your care team spend more time with you. Your care will not be affected if you choose not to participate.

Questions?

If you have questions or concerns about ambient clinical documentation or your privacy, please speak with your care team.

Boston Children’s Hospital is committed to protecting your privacy and using technology to provide the best possible care for you and your family.