Ambient speech improves EHR satisfaction, KLAS report says

KLAS findings: the impact of ambient speech

KLAS Research surveyed over 900 physicians and advanced practice providers across 24 organizations to evaluate ambient speech technology's impact on clinical documentation.

Providers reported to KLAS that ambient speech tools reduced their charting burden, allowing them to move away from the computer to spend more time with patients face-to-face. Further findings include a gain of 13.7 points in net EHR experience score, as well as 13-point gains in efficiency, usability, and patient-centered care perception scores. One physician called ambient speech "the single best experience" they have had documenting. According to HIMSS, 54% of clinicians overall say ambient speech is helpful — rising to 79% in larger systems. KLAS research aligns with this, documenting a 12-point drop in burnout scores in its Arch Collaborative Impact Report: Ambient Speech Outcomes 2025.

The survey also showed a positive impact on provider wellness. "I have gained such work-life balance; once I get home, I feel like I can disconnect and focus on my young, growing family. I am so thankful to [this ambient speech solution] for allowing me this freedom," one physician said.

Users reported spending 12% less time in after-hours documentation, and 11% fewer respondents identified the EHR as a major burnout contributor after adopting ambient speech.

Of note, only Epic users were surveyed in this report. Because Epic has strong useability scores at baseline, changes may be different for users of a different EHR. Ambient speech tools analyzed in the survey included Microsoft DAX Copilot, Abridge, Ambience Healthcare, DeepScribe and Nabla.

Evaluating the return on ambient speech investment

Organizations consistently reported positive outcomes from ambient speech adoption. Ten out of 11 saw improved EHR experience scores at their organization. Nine of 11 reported increased provider efficiency, while nine of 12 observed decreased burnout scores.

KLAS cautioned that the majority of physicians do not see ambient speech as a justification to increase patient loads, even to offset costs. It highlights one case where an organization allowed providers to decide on adding more patients, warning against mandatory increases in workloads.

Proceeding with care

While feedback has been largely positive, careful implementation of ambient speech technology is crucial. Ambient speech accuracy varies — some providers note that it currently performs best for generalists, not specialists. Providers report frustration correcting repeated errors and find the tools struggle with accent recognition. One provider said their note was not organized to their standard. Rather than sending it with a referral, they redid the whole thing.

KLAS recommends organizations clearly communicate ambient speech limitations, emphasizing that thorough note review will remain necessary.

Elizabeth Stricker, BSN, RN, comes from a nursing and healthcare leadership background, and covers health technology and leadership trends for B2B audiences.