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Generative artificial intelligence in medicine: a mixed-methods survey of UK general practitioners
Anna Kharko1,2, Cosima Locher3,4, John Torous5
1Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
Objective:
To explore the opinions of general practitioners (GPs) in the UK about the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools in primary care.
Methods And Analysis:
At the beginning of 2024, using a convenience sample, we administered an online mixed-methods survey to registered GPs currently working in the UK.
Results:
A total of 1006 GPs responded, with 53% being male and 54% over 46 years old. One-fifth of GPs reported having used AI for clinical practice, with male doctors and those in bigger cities being more likely to have used it. 80% of respondents expressed a need for more training in understanding these tools. GPs at least somewhat agreed AI would improve documentation (59%) and patient information gathering (56%). 55% felt AI could increase inequities and 54% saw potential for patient harm, but 47% believed it could enhance healthcare efficiency. GPs who used these tools were significantly more optimistic about the scope for generative AI in improving clinical tasks. One-third of GPs left comments that were classified into four major themes: (1) lack of familiarity and understanding with AI, (2) role of AI in clinical practice, (3) concerns about AI and (4) AI and the future of healthcare.
Conclusions:
This study highlights UK GPs' developing perspectives on generative AI in clinical practice, emphasising the need for more training. Many GPs reported a lack of knowledge and experience with this technology, although a portion already used non-medical grade technology for clinical tasks, with the risks that this entails.
