Understanding, experience and attitudes towards artificial intelligence technologies for clinical decision support in hearing health: a mixed-methods survey of healthcare professionals in the UK.

OBJECTIVES

Clinician acceptance influences technology adoption, but UK health professionals' attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) in hearing healthcare are unclear. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap.

METHODS

An online survey, based on the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys, was distributed to audiologists, ENT specialists and general practitioners. The survey collected quantitative and qualitative data on demographics and attitudes to AI in hearing healthcare.

RESULTS

Ninety-three participants (mean age 39 years, 56 per cent female) from three professional groups (21 audiologists, 24 ENT specialists and 48 general practitioners) responded. They acknowledged AI's benefits, emphasised the importance of the clinician-patient relationship, and stressed the need for proper training and ethical considerations to ensure successful AI integration in hearing healthcare.

CONCLUSION

This study provides valuable insights into UK healthcare professionals' attitudes towards AI in hearing health and highlights the need for further research to address specific concerns and uncertainties surrounding AI integration in hearing healthcare.