Study on Whether AI-Generated Simple Summaries Help Adults Understand Eye Doctor Notes Better

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether plain language summaries created by artificial intelligence can help adults better understand their eye doctors notes. This study focuses on patients receiving eye care at the Jules Stein Eye Institute and aims to improve communication between patients and healthcare providers by making medical information clearer. The trial compares usual medical notes to notes supplemented with AI-generated summaries that explain complex eye care information in simple, everyday language. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups one group receives the standard ophthalmology notes alone, while the other group receives these notes plus an AI-generated plain language summary reviewed by an ophthalmologist for accuracy. The AI system operates securely within UCLAs network and uses a customized large language model to generate clear explanations of medical details. No data is sent outside the secure environment, ensuring participant privacy. During the study, participants complete surveys immediately after their clinic visit to assess how well they understood their diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up plans. About one week later, they receive a follow-up phone call to further evaluate clarity and retention of information. Researchers also analyze patient comprehension scores and satisfaction, as well as time efficiency for ophthalmologists and other related outcomes. Data is securely stored and monitored throughout the trial, which is expected to last until June 2026.

Evaluating AI-Generated Plain Language Summaries on Patient Comprehension of Ophthalmology Notes Among English-Speaking Patients