Here's why AI could be listening in on your next doctor's appointment

Some doctors are already harnessing AI to get their work done faster and keep burnout at bay, although, as with any new technology, there are occasional glitches. — Image by gpointstudio on Freepik

The next time you go to the doctor, don't be surprised if an artificial intelligence program is listening in and transcribing what you and your doctor say. And if a summary of your next X-ray or MRI scan pops up more quickly than expected in your health app, AI could be the reason why.

Technology boosters talk of AI's potential to improve and accelerate medicine, from constructing new proteins to improving disease diagnostics. Many such uses are fraught with potential risks - and are still locked away in labs or awaiting government approval.