Doctors Trust AI in Gastroenterology Practice

A recent international study led by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) reveals that gastroenterologists in the Asia-Pacific region largely trust and accept the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their practice. The research, published in JMIR AI, surveyed 165 gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons, finding that 80% trust AI tools for diagnosing colorectal polyps, and 70% accept AI guidance for polyp removal during colonoscopies.
Interestingly, the study noted that doctors with less than ten years of experience perceived higher risks in using AI compared to their more experienced peers, contrary to the expectation that younger doctors would be more tech-savvy.
The researchers highlighted the need for further studies to understand the factors influencing doctors’ trust and acceptance of AI, emphasizing the potential of AI to revolutionize healthcare. The study also suggested including perspectives from other stakeholders, such as patients and nurses, to navigate trust and acceptance issues more effectively.
The study used a detailed questionnaire to gauge doctors’ trust, acceptance, and risk perception of AI in three medical scenarios: detection, characterization, and intervention of colorectal polyps. The findings underscore the importance of integrating AI into medical practice with a nuanced understanding of clinicians’ confidence and risk perceptions.