Biomedical
Navigating the ethical landscape of artificial intelligence in radiography: a cross-sectional study of radiographers’ perspectives
Abstract
Background
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in radiography presents transformative opportunities for diagnostic imaging and introduces complex ethical considerations. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore radiographers’ perspectives on the ethical implications of AI in their field and identify key concerns and potential strategies for addressing them.Methods
A structured questionnaire was distributed to a diverse group of radiographers in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire included items on ethical concerns related to AI, the perceived impact on clinical practice, and suggestions for ethical AI integration in radiography. The data were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods to capture a broad range of perspectives.Results
Three hundred eighty-eight radiographers responded and had varying levels of experience and specializations. Most (44.8%) participants were unfamiliar with the integration of AI into radiography. Approximately 32.9% of radiographers expressed uncertainty regarding the importance of transparency and explanatory capabilities in the AI systems used in radiology. Many (36.9%) participants indicated that they believed that AI systems used in radiology should be transparent and provide justifications for their decision-making procedures. A significant preponderance (44%) of respondents agreed that implementing AI in radiology may increase ethical dilemmas. However, 27.8%expressed uncertainty in recognizing and understanding the potential ethical issues that could arise from integrating AI in radiology. Of the respondents, 41.5% stated that the use of AI in radiology required establishing specific ethical guidelines. However, a significant percentage (28.9%) expressed the opposite opinion, arguing that utilizing AI in radiology does not require adherence to ethical standards. In contrast to the 46.6% of respondents voicing concerns about patient privacy over AI implementation, 41.5% of respondents did not have any such apprehensions.Conclusions
This study revealed a complex ethical landscape in the integration of AI in radiography, characterized by enthusiasm and apprehension among professionals. It underscores the necessity for ethical frameworks, education, and policy development to guide the implementation of AI in radiography. These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on AI in medical imaging and provide insights that can inform policymakers, educators, and practitioners in navigating the ethical challenges of AI adoption in healthcare.
Key Questions about AI Integration in Radiography
The article "Navigating the ethical landscape of artificial intelligence in radiography: a cross-sectional study of radiographers' perspectives" by Faten Mane Aldhafeeri explores the ethical considerations of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into radiography. Conducted in Saudi Arabia, the study surveyed 388 radiographers to understand their views on AI's impact on clinical practice and ethical standards. The findings reveal a complex landscape characterized by both enthusiasm and apprehension among professionals. Key concerns include the need for transparency in AI systems, the potential for increased ethical dilemmas, and the necessity for specific ethical guidelines to govern AI use in radiography. The study underscores the importance of developing ethical frameworks, providing education, and formulating policies to guide the implementation of AI in radiography. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
1. What are the ethical concerns of radiographers regarding AI integration in radiography?
Radiographers express concerns about the transparency of AI systems, the potential for increased ethical dilemmas, and the necessity for specific ethical guidelines to govern AI use in radiography. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
2. How do radiographers perceive the impact of AI on clinical practice?
The study indicates that radiographers have varying levels of familiarity with AI integration, with some expressing uncertainty about its importance and potential ethical issues. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
3. What recommendations do radiographers have for the ethical integration of AI in radiography?
Radiographers suggest the establishment of specific ethical guidelines, transparency in AI systems, and education to address ethical concerns associated with AI integration in radiography. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
