13 Aug 2026
A new report from the General Medical Council (GMC) highlights how technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), is helping some doctors reduce administrative work and devote more time to patient care.
The State of Medical Education and Practice in the UK: Workplace Experiences 2026 report found that 26% of doctors had experienced at least one workplace improvement in the previous year that helped them provide better patient care. This rose to 37% among GPs and 48% among GP partners.
Staffing and workforce planning changes were the most commonly reported improvements, cited by 10% of doctors, followed by the adoption of technology and digital tools at 8%.
Doctors particularly highlighted improvements to patient information systems and the use of AI to support administrative tasks. GPs reported using AI transcription for note-taking during appointments and to help draft referral letters, allowing them to focus more closely on patients and improve the quality of consultations.
However, the GMC stresses that new technology must be introduced carefully and supported by appropriate investment and training, including guidance on the risks, ethics and professional responsibilities associated with AI.
