AI transforming communication and decision-making for future doctors
Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has implemented a ground-breaking AI training platform for students
Medical students are increasingly benefiting from innovative AI training technology, which is revolutionising their communication and clinical decision-making skills.
The Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has implemented SimFlow.ai, a ground-breaking AI training platform, creating a virtual hospital environment for students to practise in a safe and supportive setting.
This technology supplements traditional teaching methods and clinical placements.
SimFlow.ai generates lifelike virtual patients, presenting realistic clinical scenarios.
This prepares students for the complex situations they will face in their medical careers, boosting their confidence to engage with real patients.
Research conducted by Dr Chris Jacobs, an Undergraduate Tutor, has confirmed the effectiveness of this approach.
Results published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research and the Cureus Journal reveal that over 90 per cent of students find the tool useful, with a high level of realism experienced.
In one study, 100 per cent of students reported feeling psychologically safe using the technology.
Since Spring 2025, the AI platform has been utilised across several areas, including surgery, ophthalmology, safeguarding, and paediatrics.
It also aids students in practising difficult conversations, such as breaking bad news, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and consent discussions.
Chris Jacobs said: “This is an excellent use of AI as a safe tool for practising communication skills, which is critical in us training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“What we really want is competent communication within the NHS. It has a large cost, not just for patients’ health, but also for the NHS when communication errors occur. If we can create more competent communicators, we’ll hopefully have happier patients and happier doctors.”
The adoption of digital technologies such as AI underscores their importance in improving both patient and staff experiences, as well as the outcomes of healthcare services.