AI in radiology: How do rad techs feel about its use?
Opinions of the adoption of artificial intelligence by radiologists have been widely reported on, but commentary on the feelings of another demographic of professionals who will inevitably be affected by AI is somewhat lacking.
So, how do radiographers feel about a future alongside AI as their coworker?
According to more than 300 responses to a survey posing that question, radiologic technologists have a mixed bag of feelings on AI, explain Sofia Torre, from the School of Health Sciences at the University of London, and colleagues [1].
“Radiographers are increasingly becoming aware of the applications, risks, and benefits of AI technologies and how these may impact their practice but also their future education and research priorities,” the experts said.
Results from the survey are published in the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences. The survey was distributed widely but received the most responses from currently practicing radiographers in North America.
Based on 314 responses received, less than half of those surveyed reported any use of AI in their current role.
Many of the radiographers indicated that they do not feel well prepared to implement AI, with numerous responses pointing to a lack of training opportunities as the culprit. More than 40% strongly felt that AI technologies should be incorporated into the curriculum for today’s emerging radiographers.
Although the responses revealed a considerable lack of understanding relative to AI, lack of enthusiasm for the technology’s potential was not found to be an issue. The majority of respondents felt that AI has the potential to improve their daily routines, especially in terms of workloads and workflows.
Additionally, many respondents had patient care on the mind. While some believed that AI could improve patient care via reduced wait times, better record keeping, etc., others described somewhat of a “use it or lose it” mentality, suggesting that techs would become over reliant on the technology and that their clinical skills would diminish as a result.
Commenting on the survey’s results, the authors eluded that the next step for implementing AI in tech workflows is raising awareness of its use and benefits.
“It is imperative for radiographers to receive appropriate education and training to enable them to play a central role in transforming clinical practice using AI and leading research in this field to continue improving patient experience and outcomes.”
In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She joined Innovate Healthcare in 2021 and has since put her unique expertise to use in her editorial role with Health Imaging.