Dictation vs Ambient

When should I use Dictation vs. Ambient?

Whenever possible, you should use Ambient, as this will bring the greatest efficiency improvements to your documentation workflows. However, there are several situations where Dictation can be particularly helpful:

• If you want to edit an existing note, especially when edits need to reflect exactly what you say (strictly verbatim).

• If you've just had a conversation with a patient, another provider, or a family member without Ambient turned on, and you want to quickly summarize or document the interaction.

• When you're working on inbox or in-basket tasks, such as replying to messages, updating prescriptions, or managing patient requests.

• When completing clinical documentation that is not based directly on patient interactions, such as pre-charting, post-op notes, procedure notes, or discharge summaries.

• If you're documenting complex instructions or care plans that require precision and clarity, and you would prefer verbally articulating them.

• When documenting nuanced information or detailed observations where explicit phrasing matters significantly.

In general, use Dictation anytime you need more explicit control over the exact wording of your documentation.