The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is becoming increasingly embraced by physicians, according to a recent study conducted by the American Medical Association. However, many doctors remain hesitant due to ongoing concerns.
Approximately 35% of physicians reported feeling more optimistic than apprehensive about AI, a slight increase from 30% the previous year. Those whose concerns outweighed their enthusiasm dropped to 25% in 2024, down from 29% in 2023. About 40% of doctors expressed both excitement and concerns about the use of AI, with minimal changes observed between 2023 and 2024.
Doctors are particularly intrigued by AI’s potential as a clinical assistant, its ability to reduce administrative burdens, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and customize treatments.
Key Findings:
The survey indicated that even with growing enthusiasm, many physicians have unresolved worries about the design of healthcare AI, including issues surrounding privacy, the risk of incorrect conclusions, and poor integration with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
In 2024, 68% of the surveyed doctors acknowledged a clear benefit or advantage in using AI tools, an increase from 65% in 2023. Furthermore, 66% reported currently utilizing AI in their practices, a significant rise from 38% the previous year.
According to 57% of physicians, the most promising opportunity for AI lies in automating administrative tasks, a slight increase from 56% in 2023.
Doctors also identified crucial factors needed for advancing AI adoption, including a designated feedback channel (88%), assurance of data confidentiality (87%), and integration with EHR systems (84%). In 2023, the key factors were data confidentiality (87%), lack of liability for AI model errors (87%), and medical liability coverage (86%).
Current Trends:
Over half of healthcare system leaders and insurance executives regard AI as an "immediate priority," with 73% of organizations looking to increase their financial investments in the technology, according to a Define Ventures survey conducted in November. Additionally, 63% of organizations have put in place governance structures to align AI initiatives with their organizational values.
Jeff Lagasse, editor-in-chief of Healthcare Finance News. For inquiries, reach out at jlagasse@himss.org. Healthcare Finance News is a publication of HIMSS Media.