Perceptions and attitudes towards AI among trainee and qualified radiologists at selected South African training hospitals.

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, but its adoption in healthcare, especially radiology, remains contentious.

Objectives: This study evaluated the perceptions and attitudes of trainee and qualified radiologists towards the adoption of AI in practice.

Method: A cross-sectional survey using a paper-based questionnaire was completed by trainee and qualified radiologists. Survey questions covered AI knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and AI training in the registrar programme on a 3-point Likert scale.

Results: A total of 100 participants completed the survey; 54% were aged 26-65 years and 61% were female, with none currently using AI in daily radiology practice. The majority (78%) of participants understood the basics and knew the role of AI in radiology. Most knew about AI from media reports (77%) and majority (95%) were never involved in AI training; only 3% of participants had no knowledge of AI at all. Participants agreed that AI could reliably detect pathological conditions (89%), reach reliable diagnosis (89%), improve daily work (78%), and 89% favoured AI practice; 89% believed that in the future, machine learning will not be independent of the radiologist. Participants were willing to learn (98%) and contribute towards advancing AI software (97%) and agreed that AI will improve the registrars' programme (97%), also noting that AI applications are as important as medical skills (87%).

Conclusion: The findings suggest AI in radiology is in its infancy, with a need for educational programmes to upskill radiologists.

Contribution: Participants were positive about AI implementation in practice and in the registrar learning programme.