A cross-sectional study of knowledge, perception and acceptance of artificial intelligence in healthcare among medical graduates in Bengaluru

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a widely utilised tool across almost all professional sectors, including healthcare.1 Previous studies have found that medical students and doctors have limited knowledge about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector, particularly in developing countries.2-5 However, with recent advances in healthcare and telemedicine, newer studies are required to evaluate the current scenario in this digital era. Understanding the acceptance of AI in healthcare is crucial for determining the willingness of young doctors to incorporate AI into their medical practice. This study aims to assess the knowledge, perception, and acceptance of AI in healthcare among recent medical graduates, including medical interns, junior residents, senior residents, and fellowship candidates. Materials and methods: An online questionnaire was distributed across various social media platforms to our study population. The questionnaire focused on the participants’ knowledge of AI, their perception of its use in individual patient care, health systems, and population health, ethical issues related to its use, and its impact on their specialty choices. Descriptive statistics were applied to measure the population's knowledge, perception, and acceptance of AI in healthcare. Results and discussion: A total of 254 interested candidates (57% females) responded to the survey. The median knowledge score of the participants was slightly higher in male respondents than female respondents (Image 1). A majority of the respondents stated that AI would be capable of analysing patient information to interpret diagnostic imaging, diagnoses, and prognoses, as well as conducting population health surveillance. Additionally, 53% of the participants indicated that AI has already or will impact their choice of specialty selection. Moreover, 66% of them feel that current medical education inadequately prepares them to work alongside AI, while a striking 81% of them believe in incorporating AI competencies into medical training.Compared to previous studies3-4, there is a remarkable increase in knowledge and perception regarding AI in healthcare. However, a vast majority of the respondents feel that further awareness and training in this area is required. This is consistent with the findings from some of the recent studies.6-8 Conclusion: Our findings suggest a growing interest in learning about AI and integrating it into our daily work routines among medical graduates. Medical graduates are prepared to receive training on AI but the current curriculum lacks adequate focus on this domain. Hence, incorporating AI competencies into medical training would be necessary for effective integration of AI into medical practice. More education and exposure to AI at the undergraduate level may prove beneficial in preparing students for the future of healthcare.