Adapted from Kim Komando, The Current Newsletter, April 23, 2026
Here's something your doctor probably hasn't mentioned — there may be an AI in the room with you.
At about one in three doctors’ offices across the country, an AI scribe is quietly recording your entire visit. Everything you say. Your symptoms, your medications, that random thing you mentioned because you were nervous. It transcribes the whole conversation and drafts the official note that goes into your medical record.
Tools like Nuance's DAX Copilot, Abridge, Suki, and Epic's system are spreading fast — and most patients have no idea it's even happening.
The upside is real, honestly. Your doctor isn't hunched over a keyboard anymore. You're getting actual eye contact and a real conversation. Visits feel more human.
But here's where it gets a little uncomfortable.
These AI systems aren't perfect. They miss things, skip context, and sometimes include details that were never actually said. Your doctor is supposed to review the notes before anything is saved to your chart — but let's be honest, not everyone has the time to read carefully. These oversights can adversely impact your PEB case, as these notes end up in your permanent medical record. The PEB staff will see these notes. So will the VA Rating Activity. And, sadly, future doctors will read them. So next time you're sitting in that exam room, just ask these four questions:
It's your medical record. You deserve to know who — or what — is writing it.
Here's something your doctor probably hasn't mentioned — there may be an AI in the room with you.
At about one in three doctors’ offices across the country, an AI scribe is quietly recording your entire visit. Everything you say. Your symptoms, your medications, that random thing you mentioned because you were nervous. It transcribes the whole conversation and drafts the official note that goes into your medical record.
Tools like Nuance's DAX Copilot, Abridge, Suki, and Epic's system are spreading fast — and most patients have no idea it's even happening.
The upside is real, honestly. Your doctor isn't hunched over a keyboard anymore. You're getting actual eye contact and a real conversation. Visits feel more human.
But here's where it gets a little uncomfortable.
These AI systems aren't perfect. They miss things, skip context, and sometimes include details that were never actually said. Your doctor is supposed to review the notes before anything is saved to your chart — but let's be honest, not everyone has the time to read carefully. These oversights can adversely impact your PEB case, as these notes end up in your permanent medical record. The PEB staff will see these notes. So will the VA Rating Activity. And, sadly, future doctors will read them. So next time you're sitting in that exam room, just ask these four questions:
- Are you using an AI scribe today?
- What company is it, and do they keep the audio?
- Can I review the notes before they're finalized?
- Can I opt out?
It's your medical record. You deserve to know who — or what — is writing it.