Patient Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in Radiology

There are two major areas for patient engagement in radiology artificial intelligence (AI). One is in the sharing of data for AI development; the second is the use of AI in patient care. In general, individuals support sharing deidentified data if used for the common good, to help others with similar health conditions, or for research. However, there is concern with risk to privacy including reidentification and use for other than intended purposes. Lack of trust is mentioned as a barrier for data sharing. Individuals want to be involved in the data-sharing process. In the use of AI in medical care, patients generally support AI as an assist to the radiologist but lack trust in unsupervised AI. Patients worry about liability in case of bad outcomes. Patients are concerned about loss of the human connection and the loss of empathy during a vulnerable time in their lives. Patients expressed concern about risk of discrimination due to bias in AI algorithms. Building trust in AI requires transparency, explainability, security, and privacy protection. Radiologists can take action to prepare their patients to become more trusting of AI. Developing and implementing data-sharing agreements allows patients to voluntarily help in the algorithm development process. Developing AI disclosure guidelines and having AI use disclosure discussions with patients will help them understand the use of AI in their care. As the use of AI increases, there is an opportunity for radiologists to develop and maintain close relationships with their patients and to become more involved in their care.