3238. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Health to make it clear that a patient can decline the use of AI within a consultation, particularly recording tools for the purposes of note taking and letter writing during a consultation, and for the patient to continue to receive a consultation if they decline the use of AI within that consultation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60766/26]

The Government supports the responsible and safe use of artificial intelligence in health and social care where it can assist healthcare professionals, improve services and support better patient outcomes.

Where AI-enabled tools are used during a consultation, including tools that may assist with recording, note-taking, clinical documentation or the preparation of correspondence, patients should be informed about their use and their views and preferences should be respected. Transparency and meaningful patient engagement are fundamental to the responsible use of AI in healthcare.

The Department’s AI for Care Strategy, published in March 2026, promotes the adoption of AI in a manner that is safe, transparent, accountable and centred on the needs of patients.

In July 2026, HIQA published its National Guidance for the Responsible and Safe Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health and Social Care Services. The guidance promotes transparency, patient safety, human oversight and person-centred care in the use of AI technologies. It emphasises that people using services should be informed when, where and for what purpose AI is being used, and that they should be supported to make informed decisions about its use in their care.[]

AI must support, and not replace, the judgement of qualified healthcare professionals. Clinical responsibility and accountability for patient care remain with the healthcare professional concerned.

As a general principle, patients should be informed about the use of AI technologies in their care and their views and preferences should be respected. A patient’s access to necessary healthcare should not be adversely affected because the patient raises questions or concerns regarding the use of such technologies.

The conduct of an individual consultation is a matter for the healthcare professional and provider concerned, having regard to the patient’s circumstances and wishes and to applicable professional, legal, clinical and operational requirements.

The Government will continue to support the adoption of AI in healthcare in a manner that maintains patient trust, protects patient safety and respects the rights and preferences of people using health and social care services.