Artificial intelligence is becoming more and more prevalent in physicians’ daily workflows — whether it be through the automation of administrative tasks, generation of clinical notes or deliverance of insights to improve clinical decision making.
While many physicians are enthusiastic about AI’s growing ubiquitousness, there are also some who remain wary. A new survey from the American Medical Association showed that just two thirds of physicians see an advantage to AI, with the other third believing the technology has disadvantages or no benefits.
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The survey, conducted in August, garnered responses from 1,081 practicing physicians across the country. Respondents expressed mixed feelings regarding AI’s use in their field, with 41% reporting that they were both equally excited and concerned.
Those who felt optimistic about AI cited reduced administrative burden as the number one benefit they’re looking for. First and foremost, physicians are seeking AI tools to assist them with tedious, time-consuming tasks like documentation and prior authorization, the survey showed. Examples of AI vendors that sell this type of software include Augmedix, Nuance, Cohere Health and Surescripts.
The surveyed physicians also showed interest in AI tools to support diagnosis. Examples of companies offering this technology include Aidoc and PathAI.
Only 38% of respondents reported that they were currently using AI in practice. The most common use cases cited by this group were for documentation, translation services and diagnostic assistance.
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As for the AI solutions that physicians plan to adopt within the next 5 years, the most sought-after tools are those that help with chart summaries, predicting demand and forecasting workforce needs, according to the survey.
Patient privacy and the impact to the patient-physician relationship were the most common reasons physicians cited for having reservations about AI. The use of AI in healthcare has prompted physicians to ask ethical questions about who has access to patient data, how it is used and whether patients are adequately informed.
Additionally, physicians traditionally pride themselves on establishing a trusting and empathetic relationship with their patients. Some worry that the introduction of AI may lead to a more impersonal form of care, diminishing the patient-physician bond.
In order for more physicians to implement AI products into their workflows, vendors should think about improving their data privacy assurances, providing malpractice insurance and guaranteeing that the provider is not liable for model errors, the survey showed.
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