Patients Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Diabetic Eye Screening. Issue 3 (May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yap, Aaron; Wilkinson, Benjamin; Chen, Eileen; Han, Lydia; Vaghefi, Ehsan; Galloway, Chris; Squirrell, David
• Is Part Of: Asia-Pacific journal of ophthalmology. Volume 11:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 287
• Page End: 293
• Publication Date: 2022-05
• Subjects: artificial intelligence -- diabetic retinopathy -- diagnostic screening programs -- patient acceptance of health care; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; Eye -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.7005
• DOI: 10.1097/APO.0000000000000525
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0129-1653

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is poised to revolutionize modern delivery of health care services. We set to evaluate the patient perspective of AI use in diabetic retinal screening. Design: Survey. Methods: Four hundred thirty-eight patients undergoing diabetic retinal screening across New Zealand participated in a survey about their opinion of AI technology in retinal screening. The survey consisted of 13 questions covering topics of awareness, trust, and receptivity toward AI systems. Results: The mean age was 59 years. The majority of participants identified as New Zealand European (50%), followed by Asian (31%), Pacific Islander (10%), and Maori (5%). Whilst 73% of participants were aware of AI, only 58% have heard of it being implemented in health care. Overall, 78% of respondents were comfortable with AI use in their care, with 53% saying they would trust an AI-assisted screening program as much as a health professional. Despite having a higher awareness of AI, younger participants had lower trust in AI systems. A higher proportion of Maori and Pacific participants indicated a preference toward human-led screening. The main perceived benefits of AI included faster diagnostic speeds and greater accuracy. Conclusions: There is low awareness of clinical AI applications among our participants. Despite this, most are receptive toward the implementation of AI in diabetic eye screening. Overall, there was a strong preference toward continual involvement of clinicians in the screening process. There are key recommendations to enhance the receptivity of the public toward incorporation of AI into retinal screening programs.