There are many AI-based search engines for medical doctors in private practice for the application of patient record querying (for example, Google Vertex AI) to clinical decision support (for example, Open Evidence).

Good evening, Dr. Vollger.

That's a very practical and important question. You've correctly identified that the high cost of many enterprise-level AI tools is a significant barrier for physicians in private practice. While there isn't a single "best" AI search engine, the market is evolving, and there are several accessible options worth considering.

The key is to think of these as AI-powered assistants rather than traditional search engines. They don't just find information; they help you synthesize, summarize, and generate insights.

Affordable and Accessible AI Tools

Here are a few categories of tools that can be valuable for a private practice, keeping cost in mind:

1. General-Purpose AI with Medical Applications

Many large language models (LLMs) have free or freemium versions that can be used to augment a physician's workflow. While not designed specifically for medical use, they can be highly useful for non-clinical tasks.

• Google Gemini & Microsoft Copilot: These are often integrated directly into free email and office suites. They can help draft patient communication letters, summarize long medical literature reviews, or create quick patient education materials.
• ChatGPT (Free Version): This is excellent for quickly getting general information on a topic, brainstorming research questions, or summarizing lengthy academic papers to save time.

Crucial Caveat: These models should never be used for clinical decision-making or direct patient advice. Their information should always be verified against reputable medical databases and a physician's clinical judgment.

2. Specialized, Low-Cost Medical AI

A growing number of platforms are designed specifically for medical professionals and have pricing models that are more affordable for individual practitioners or small groups.

• EHR and EMR Integrations: Many modern electronic health record (EHR) and electronic medical record (EMR) systems are beginning to integrate AI tools directly into their platforms. These tools, which often come with a small additional fee, can assist with automated note-taking, diagnostic support, and administrative tasks.
• Third-Party Platforms: Some platforms offer affordable monthly subscriptions for a suite of clinical tools. These can include AI-powered diagnostic assistants or symptom checkers. It's essential to research their data sources and validation processes.

Recommendation: Before adopting any of these, check for free trials to ensure the tool fits your specific workflow and needs.

Final Thought: The Physician as the Final AI

Ultimately, no AI search engine or assistant can replace a physician's experience and judgment. These tools are most effective when used to save time on administrative or informational tasks, allowing you to dedicate more time to what matters most: direct patient care.