One in Four GPs Now Using AI Despite Most Receiving No Training, Survey Reveals

Artificial intelligence is quietly becoming part of everyday work for many general practitioners in the United Kingdom, even though most have never received formal training on how to use it safely or effectively. A new survey, described as the largest year-on-year study of AI usage among UK GPs, has found that one in four doctors now rely on generative AI tools in their professional duties. The findings highlight a remarkable shift in attitudes toward emerging technologies and raise pressing questions about oversight and preparedness in the healthcare system.

Just a year ago, only one in five GPs reported using generative AI. The sharp increase in adoption reflects both growing familiarity with the tools and the mounting pressures on frontline medical staff. For many doctors, AI systems are becoming practical assistants that help with administrative tasks, clinical decision support, or communication with patients.

Widespread Use but Little Training

The study also uncovered a concerning gap in training and institutional guidance. Of the doctors who said they use AI in their work, an overwhelming ninety-five percent reported that they have not received any form of professional training. Even more striking, eighty-five percent said their employers have not encouraged them to use AI at all. Many GPs are therefore integrating these tools independently, without clear rules on data handling, accuracy checks, or ethical considerations.

This lack of oversight has caught the attention of researchers and policymakers. Generative AI can produce helpful summaries, draft letters, suggest possible diagnoses or assist with patient education, but without proper instruction, doctors may not fully understand the limitations or risks of relying on automated systems. Despite these challenges, GPs continue to adopt AI because it offers real value in their daily work.

From Uncertainty to Acceptance in Just One Year

Dr Charlotte Blease of Uppsala University and Harvard Medical School, one of the researchers behind the survey, described the shift as dramatic. She noted that within a twelve month period, generative AI has moved from being seen as a taboo topic in clinical settings to becoming a widely used tool. According to Blease, doctors are not waiting for official approval or policies. They are adopting AI because it helps them manage the growing demands of their profession.

Administrative duties, record keeping, referrals and patient communication take up large portions of a GP’s working day. With staff shortages, long waiting lists and rising pressure across the NHS, many doctors view AI tools as practical solutions that reduce workload and free up time for direct patient care. Blease emphasised that the primary concern is not that GPs are using AI but that they are doing so without guidance or supervisory frameworks. Without training, there is a risk that errors could go unnoticed or that doctors could over rely on automated suggestions.

Why Doctors Are Turning to AI

Generative AI offers a range of potential uses for medical professionals. It can help draft patient letters, summarise long medical documents, support differential diagnosis by offering possibilities to consider and assist with research or clinical guidelines. Some GPs may even use it to help explain complex conditions to patients in clearer language.

The appeal is clear. AI tools can perform repetitive tasks quickly, handle large amounts of information and streamline paperwork that typically consumes hours. With the NHS under chronic strain and doctors facing rising workloads, AI becomes an accessible way to make daily processes more efficient.

However, because adoption is happening independently, inconsistencies are emerging. Some GPs use AI only for administrative tasks, while others incorporate it into clinical decision making. Without a standard framework, practices vary widely from one clinic to another.

The Need for Policy and Oversight

Experts say that the healthcare sector must develop formal training programs, clear guidelines and policies that define how AI can be used safely. The technology is advancing rapidly, and many doctors see it as a tool that is here to stay. Healthcare regulators, universities and professional bodies will need to catch up to ensure that AI supports high quality care rather than undermining it.

Blease has warned that the absence of institutional direction represents a genuine risk. She argues that proper training would help GPs understand the strengths and weaknesses of AI tools, preventing misuse and avoiding overdependence on systems that can occasionally produce inaccurate or misleading results.

As AI becomes more common in daily medical practice, the focus will shift from whether these tools should be used to how they can be integrated responsibly. Creating national guidance, developing accreditation paths and ensuring that AI tools meet clinical safety standards will be essential steps in modernising Britain’s healthcare system.

A Turning Point for UK Healthcare

The survey’s findings show that the transformation is already underway. Whether the NHS is ready to support it remains an open question. For now, GPs are adopting AI because it helps them navigate an overstretched system. The next stage will require leadership, policy and education to ensure that technology enhances care for patients without compromising safety or professional integrity.