Attitudes of primary care physicians towards artificial intelligence - a survey from Sweden

Hans Thulesius, Hasan Burhan, Felix Busch, Keno Bressem, Thomas Åkesson Lindow

Keywords: primary care physicians, artificial intelligence, attitudes, survey

Background:

The anticipated transformation of medicine by artificial intelligence (AI) extends beyond diagnosis and imaging to prognosis, treatment, and patient monitoring. This study aims to understand the attitudes of primary care physicians in Sweden towards this technological shift.

Research questions:

How do primary care physicians in Sweden perceive the application of AI in medicine and health care?

Method:

A self-report questionnaire survey originally designed to gather patients' opinions on AI use in medical settings was adapted into a 28-item survey for physicians. This instrument was designed to capture background information (4 items), gauge current perceptions of AI (16 items), and uncover prevalent concerns (8 items).

Results:

Approximately 100 primary care physicians in a Swedish region of 200,000 residents were sent a 28-item survey about AI in the spring of 2023. Of the 53 respondents, median age was 40 years, with a gender distribution of 29 women and 24 men; 28 GP specialists and 25 GP trainees. In terms of electronic device usage, 98% of physicians reported regular use of smartphones, 82% used computers, and 20% used smartwatches on a weekly basis. Men reported a higher perceived knowledge of AI than women (p=0.007). However, when comparing other items relating to attitudes towards AI, no significant differences were observed across gender or age groups. When asked about their general view on the use of AI in healthcare, 52% responded positively, 35% negatively, and 13% were neutral. In response to the statement "With my current knowledge, I feel adequately prepared to work with AI as a physician”, 30% of physicians agreed, 51% disagreed, and 19% held a neutral stance.

Conclusions:

Swedish primary care physicians displayed a broad range of attitudes towards AI integration in medicine in 2023. The results underscore the need for further education and preparation for the advent of AI in healthcare.

Points for discussion:

How can continuing medical education programs be developed to better prepare physicians for the integration of AI in healthcare?

Given the increasingly digital nature of medical practice, what strategies could be employed to improve physician comfort and proficiency with AI technologies?

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