Attitudes/perceptions related to the use of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare among university students

Abstract

Introduction: In healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, capable of improving diagnostic accuracy, optimizing treatments and streamlining administrative processes. However, despite its benefits the implementation of AI in healthcare faces controversies and challenges.

Objective: To determine the attitudes and perceptions about the use of AI in health care among university students (US) of health sciences in Guadalajara, Jalisco.

Methods: An online form was administered among US to collect sociodemographic data and a 28-item questionnaire to determine attitudes and perceptions about AI.

Results: A total of 83 US, mostly women and belonging to nursing, nutrition and psychology programs, participated. Participants reported a high use of technology, as well as moderate knowledge of AI. Regarding attitudes toward its use in health care, a neutral position predominated. Although they recognized the potential benefits of AI, they were cautious when it came to their own diagnosis or treatment. Additionally, concerns such as health professional (HP) displacement and job loss, data security, and deterioration of the HP-patient relationship emerged.

Conclusions: US attitudes toward AI in healthcare reflect a mix of positive and negative feelings, stemming from broader societal concerns about the rapid integration of AI into the sector. Taking these concerns into account will narrow the gap between US perceptions of AI and encourage the use of this technology to improve patient outcomes.