Top Tips
Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday aesthetic practice, whether you are using it to take consultation notes, create content, communicate with patients or support treatment planning. There are some exciting opportunities, but from an insurance perspective, the key principle remains the same: AI can support you, but it cannot take responsibility for you.
Here are my six tips for embracing AI without unnecessarily increasing your risk.
1. Keep a human in the loop
Never treat an AI-generated recommendation as a clinical decision. AI can identify patterns, organise information and make suggestions, but the practitioner must apply their own clinical judgement. If something goes wrong, you cannot delegate responsibility to the software. You remain accountable for the care you provide.
2. Check before you trust
AI can produce inaccurate or completely fabricated information that sounds extremely convincing. This applies whether you are using it to research a treatment, draft patient information or create website and social media content. Check clinical claims, regulatory information and treatment advice against reliable sources before using or publishing them.
3. Protect patient data
Think very carefully before putting patient information into generative AI platforms. Medical histories, consultation records and identifiable clinical photographs can contain personal and special category data protected under UK GDPR. Understand how any AI system processes, stores and protects data before using it. Where appropriate, anonymise patient information and never assume that because a tool is easy to access, it is suitable for handling confidential clinical data.
4. Review AI-generated records
AI-assisted transcription and note-taking could be hugely valuable in aesthetics, helping practitioners create detailed records while remaining engaged with the patient. But always review AI-generated notes before they become part of the patient record. Check for errors, omissions or wording that does not accurately reflect what was discussed.
5. Don’t let AI set unrealistic expectations
AI-generated imaging and treatment simulations can be impressive, but a digitally generated result is not a guaranteed clinical outcome. Make sure patients understand the limitations of these tools and continue to manage expectations through a thorough practitioner-led consultation and consent process.
6. Create an AI policy now
Don’t wait for a problem to discover how AI is being used across your clinic. Identify which tools staff are using, what they are using them for and what information is being entered. Set clear boundaries around acceptable use, data protection, clinical decision-making and sign-off.
AI will undoubtedly become more embedded in aesthetic practice. My advice is not to be afraid of it, but don’t become complacent either. Used well, it can save time and improve processes. But good clinical judgement, clear communication, accurate documentation and robust governance remain your best protection when something goes wrong.
To find out how Hamilton Fraser can support your aesthetic clinic, get in touch on 0800 63 43 881 or visit hamiltonfraser.co.uk.