A study led by NTU Singapore found that gastroenterologists generally trust and accept AI medical tools. The study surveyed 165 doctors in the Asia-Pacific region, finding that 80% trust AI-powered tools for diagnosing and assessing colorectal polyps. 70% also trust AI assistance in deciding whether to remove polyps found during screening colonoscopies. The study, published in JMIR AI, found no difference in acceptance based on gender, work setting, or size of practice. However, doctors with less than 10 years of experience perceived higher risk with AI tools than their more experienced colleagues.
AI Acceptance Among Gastroenterologists
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been making significant strides in the medical field, with its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, decision-making, and patient outcomes. However, the successful integration of AI into clinical practice hinges on the trust and acceptance of healthcare providers. A recent international study, led by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, has shed light on this aspect, focusing on the treatment of digestive diseases.
The study surveyed 165 gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons across the Asia-Pacific region. The results indicated a generally positive attitude towards AI, with 80% of the respondents expressing trust and acceptance of AI-powered tools for diagnosing and assessing colorectal polyps. These benign growths in the colon have the potential to become cancerous, and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
AI in Endoscopy
The study also explored the acceptance of AI in guiding endoscopists on whether to remove polyps found during screening colonoscopies. Here, the acceptance rate was slightly lower, with 70% of the respondents expressing trust in this AI-assisted application. The research team found no significant difference in acceptance levels based on gender, work setting (public or private), or the size of the practice.
Experience Influences AI Acceptance
Interestingly, the study found that the number of years of experience played a significant role in the acceptance of AI. Contrary to expectations, gastroenterologists with less than 10 years of clinical experience perceived a higher risk associated with AI-powered medical tools than their more experienced counterparts. This finding suggests that familiarity and comfort with technology do not necessarily translate into acceptance of AI in clinical decision-making.
Need for Further Research
The study, published in the scientific journal JMIR AI in March, underscores the need for further research into what influences doctors’ acceptance of AI in their medical practice. The team of scientists from Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan emphasized that understanding these factors is crucial for the successful implementation of AI in healthcare.
In conclusion, while AI holds great promise for improving healthcare outcomes, its successful integration into clinical practice depends on the trust and acceptance of healthcare providers. This study provides valuable insights into the attitudes of gastroenterologists towards AI, highlighting the need for further research to understand and address the concerns of healthcare professionals.
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