Pathologists' user experience in the era of digital pathology: a KAP study in a region of emerging digitization

Information regarding the use of digital pathology (DP) in developing countries is limited. Additionally, the knowledge and attitudes/perceptions of pathologists are mainly unknown. In this study, we aim to assess the knowledge and attitudes of Jordanian pathologists on DP and artificial intelligence (AI).

A digital survey consisting of 32 questions was constructed using Google Forms and sent to practicing pathologists across all sectors in Jordan. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Forty pathologists representing university hospitals, the Ministry of Health, the Royal Medical Services (RMS), and the private sector (PS) participated in the study. 69.2% of participants had average/above-average knowledge of DP. 77.8% of participants without scanners were interested in obtaining one if funds were available, and 85% were likely or very likely to use it for diagnostic purposes. In comparison, 92.5% were very likely to use it for consultation. Cases diagnosed using DP represent 10%. 85% of participants expressed interest in attending sessions at a national congress on DP, and 37.5% currently use AI platforms. Approximately 65% of people with DP didn't follow any guidelines. Seventy-one percent and twenty-nine percent of the guidelines used were from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Royal College of Pathologists (RCP), respectively. At the same time, all pathologists believed the Jordanian Pathologists Society should develop its guidelines. 76.9% thought that a lack of funds was the primary obstacle to adopting DP. In comparison, a lack of infrastructure and experience ranked second, with 40% indicating a lack of interest or a preference for glass slides as obstacles. As for the primary use of DP, 86.8%, 73.7%, 63.2%, 50%, 44.7%, and 44.7% would use it for consultation, education, research, diagnosis, archiving cases, and tumor boards, respectively.

Although digital pathology and slide scanners are limited in Jordan, most pathologists are willing to adopt their use, provided that the significant challenges of a lack of funding and inadequate infrastructure are addressed. The primary uses of DP in Jordan seem to be related to consultations and research.