Oz Medicann Group (OMG) has officially launched its AI-powered GP assistant and patient co-pilot Ask Sam in Australia, with Dr Sara McDonald heading up the project.
OMG said the virtual companion streamlines compliance, documentation, and treatment planning for healthcare providers, enabling them to focus on patient care.
Meanwhile, patients gain instant access to consultations, prescriptions, and same-day dispensing services, empowering them to take control of their health journey.
Powered by sophisticated generative AI and trained on more than 150 years of medical data, OMG said Ask Sam is tailored to regional needs, including the Australian healthcare landscape and medicinal cannabis guidelines.
“This robust platform bridges the gap between clinical efficiency and patient convenience, providing holistic support for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-ups,” the firm said.
The platform will initially be offered to GPs and clinics on a free-trial basis, with OMG planning to launch a monthly subscription model after the proof-of-concept phase. Fees are yet to be determined but are expected to be around A$300-400 per month.
OMG founder and chair John Leith described Ask Sam as “a revolutionary step forward in healthcare”.
He added: “By harnessing advanced AI, we’re enabling practitioners to deliver exceptional care more efficiently while providing patients with immediate access to essential services.
“This launch underscores OMG’s commitment to advancing accessible, high-quality healthcare for everyone.”
Dr McDonald, a high-profile victim of the NSW Pharmaceutical Services Unit’s recent crackdown on THC prescribing, said Ask Sam would help GPs navigate the complex regulatory landscape for medicinal cannabis.
She said: “By supporting clinicians in real time and providing patients with immediate access to critical services, Ask Sam redefines what’s possible in healthcare delivery. I’m excited to lead a platform that prioritises innovation, compliance, and quality care.”
OMG CEO Rohit Bhuta said Dr McDonald’s expertise and leadership will be “invaluable” to Ask Sam’s mission.
He added: “Her insights into healthcare and compliance will be instrumental in realising the platform’s potential as a trusted partner for clinicians and patients.”
OMG said Ask Sam will save healthcare practitioners up to two hours each day by reducing administrative burdens while patients will benefit from real-time consultations, immediate prescription generation, and rapid dispensing.
“These features reduce wait times and create a seamless healthcare experience, empowering patients to take control of their health journey,” the firm added.
While initially focused on medicinal cannabis, the technology can be adapted to any healthcare speciality.
