Assessing knowledge and perception of artificial intelligence in solid organ transplantation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into healthcare, reshaping clinical decision-making and care pathways. In solid organ transplantation (SOT), where clinical complexity and uncertainty are high, AI holds particular promise. Yet, beyond technical performance, its successful adoption depends on how it is understood and perceived by patients and healthcare professionals (HP). To date, little is known about these perspectives in SOT. This study provides the first assessment of knowledge and perceptions of AI among patients and healthcare professionals in this field.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among SOT patients and HP. Patients were recruited through associations, and HP through the French Society of Transplantation. Data were collected using a web-based questionnaire including open-ended and closed items addressing sociodemographic characteristics, declared knowledge, and perception of AI and its applications in healthcare and SOT. Thematic coding was used for qualitative data, regression models for association analyses, and reliability testing was assessed (Cronbach's α > 0.7).

218 patients and 92 HP participated. Patients reported low AI declared knowledge (mean 2.4/10), while HP suggested slightly higher levels (3.8/10). 140 patients had heard of AI in healthcare, and very few were aware of its use in SOT (n = 20). Although most HP were familiar with AI in healthcare (n = 71), declared knowledge of AI applications in SOT remained limited (n = 39). Overall, both groups expressed positive perceptions of AI in SOT, with concerns mainly related to dehumanization of care and potential errors. Patients largely viewed AI as a complement too, rather than a replacement for healthcare professionals.

As declared knowledge was associated with perceptions of AI, these findings highlight the importance of targeted educational interventions to promote informed integration of AI in SOT. This exploratory study provides valuable insights into potential facilitators and barriers to adoption, providing actionable insights to guide implementation strategies and policy development in transplant care.