How One Missouri Clinic is Using AI to Transform Healthcare

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we live—and now, it's helping doctors provide better care. At Northeast Family Health in Kirksville, Missouri, a new AI-powered tool is being tested to lighten the load for physicians and improve patient interactions.

A Smarter Way to Take Notes

Since June of last year, Northeast Family Health has been piloting an “ambient listening” service. This AI tool listens to doctor-patient conversations (with consent), transcribes the relevant medical details, and generates structured notes known as SOAP notes (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan).

Dr. Matthew Tilton, who’s leading the initiative, says the tool has been a game-changer:

“It helps save time on administrative tasks and is less of a cognitive burden. It also allows me to focus more on the patient.”

Tech That Supports, Not Replaces

Using just a smartphone, the system filters out small talk and focuses on what matters medically. Despite the impressive 95% accuracy, Dr. Tilton emphasizes that AI is only a tool—decisions and care still come from a human doctor.

“AI can’t have empathy. It’s never going to ask about your family.”

Bigger Potential for Public Health

Beyond individual care, Dr. Tilton envisions AI helping create clinic-wide guidelines and supporting broader public health planning. It’s already proving useful in other fields like radiology and psychiatry.

Patient First, Always

Patients are asked before the AI tool is used, and their comfort remains a priority. As the clinic moves toward full implementation, the hope is to make healthcare more efficient—without losing the human touch.

To learn more about how AI is being used at the Family Health Clinic, click here!

Northeast Family Health, 1506 Crown Drive, Kirksville, MO 63501 - A service of the Northeast Missouri Health Council.