Artificial intelligence and the medical physics profession - A Swedish perspective

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Healthcare Technology
• Artificial Intelligence

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly discussed for its potential to enhance healthcare sustainability and processes.
• This study focuses on the specific impact of AI on the medical physics profession from a Swedish viewpoint.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the perceived effects of AI on the medical physics profession in Sweden.
• To establish a foundation for understanding AI's role in Swedish medical physics.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to the Swedish medical physics community to gather viewpoints on AI.
• A SWOT analysis was conducted, integrating survey results with the current Swedish healthcare landscape.

Main Results:

• 90% of licensed Swedish medical physicists believe AI will alter their practice, with 81% not viewing it as a career risk.
• Respondents showed positivity towards integrating AI into educational programs, despite reporting low current knowledge and workplace preparedness.
• A 40% response rate (163 out of 411) was achieved for the survey.

Conclusions:

• AI is expected to significantly change the medical physics profession, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
• Medical physics education in Sweden should incorporate AI learning objectives to address knowledge gaps and leverage AI's potential.
• Proactive adaptation is necessary to ensure the medical physics profession thrives alongside AI advancements in healthcare.