The guidance focuses on data compliance and security, risk identification and assessment, while ensuring that staff are properly trained before using the technology.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: ‘I am determined we embrace this kind of technology, so clinicians don't have to spend so much time pushing pens and can focus on their patients.'

The NHS England-funded, London-wide AVT work, led by Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, has evaluated AVT capabilities across a range of clinical settings - Adult Outpatients, Primary Care, Paediatrics, Mental Health, Community care, A+E and across London Ambulance Service.

This multi-site evaluation involving more than 7,000 patients has demonstrated widespread benefits. Interim data shows:

• Increase in direct care – clinicians spending more time spent with patients rather than typing on a computer
• Increase in productivity in A&E – the technology has supported more patients to be seen in emergency departments by carrying out admin for A&E staff.

At GOSH, AVTs have listened to consultations and drafted clinic notes and letters. These were then edited and authorised by the clinician before being uploaded to the secure electronic health record system and sent on to patients and their families. Clinicians agreed the AI helped them offer more attention to their patients without affecting the quality of the clinic note or letter.

Dr Vin Diwakar, national director of transformation at NHS England, said: ‘This exciting technology can reduce the burden of administration, allowing patients more quality time with their clinician, and our new guidance shows the NHS's ability to rapidly and safely harness the very latest innovations to transform healthcare and bring benefits for our hardworking staff and our patients.'