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AI-augmented rheumatologist? Reflections on AI-induced technostress, job insecurity and professional identity
1Rheumatology, Medical Clinic III: Endocrinology, Nephrology and Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Neurology and Dermatology, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, Leipzig, Germany. marco.krasselt@medizin.uni-leipzig.de.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|August 3, 2026
Summary
Artificial intelligence (AI) in rheumatology can enhance care but may cause technostress and job insecurity. A framework is proposed to integrate AI while supporting rheumatologists' professional identity and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Medical Informatics
- Artificial Intelligence
Background:
- Artificial intelligence (AI) applications are emerging in rheumatology, including imaging and risk prediction.
- Despite positive expectations, routine AI adoption in rheumatology remains limited.
- Concerns exist regarding AI's impact on rheumatologists' technostress, job security, and professional identity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize evidence on AI in rheumatology, focusing on AI-induced technostress, job insecurity, and professional identity.
- To propose a framework for an 'AI-augmented' rheumatologist to navigate these challenges.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of articles published between January 2015 and March 2026.
- Searches combined AI and rheumatology terms with concepts of technostress, burnout, and professional identity.
- Screening of reference lists from key AI reviews and empirical studies in rheumatology.
Main Results:
- AI tools in rheumatology include imaging, risk prediction, data integration, and large language models (LLMs).
- AI-related self-esteem threat is a key driver of job insecurity and potential burnout in physicians.
- Rheumatology's reliance on pattern recognition and patient relationships makes perceived threats to expertise particularly salient.
Conclusions:
- AI can support rheumatology care and potentially reduce technostress by automating tasks.
- Unmanaged AI integration can negatively impact professional identity and well-being.
- A proposed framework emphasizes clear roles, AI literacy, clinician-led implementation, and well-being monitoring.