Current patient attitudes to artificial intelligence applications in radiology

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

Background:

• Healthcare systems are increasingly funding artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms in radiology.
• Patient experience in healthcare is expected to change with AI implementation.
• Limited evidence currently exists regarding patient attitudes towards AI in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine current patient attitudes towards the implementation of AI in diagnostic imaging.
• To understand patient perceptions of AI's utility, safety, and role in clinical decision-making.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study conducted at a tertiary hospital network.
• An 18-item questionnaire administered to patients undergoing outpatient imaging.
• Factor analysis used to identify underlying themes in patient responses.

Main Results:

• 162 patients completed the questionnaire; 56% were female.
• 78% of patients believed AI in healthcare would be useful, and 64% supported its use.
• Patients prioritized doctor responsibility for AI decisions (71%), expressed concerns about reduced personal interaction, and compared AI unfavorably to human doctors, opposing autonomous AI decisions.

Conclusions:

• Patient acceptability of AI in healthcare requires strategies for ethical implementation.
• Findings inform the balance between AI's value to patients and the healthcare system.
• Insights guide AI design and deployment in UK healthcare settings.