Overview

• A JAMA Network Open study found that patients perceive doctors who use AI as less competent, empathetic and trustworthy.
• Researchers at the University of Würzburg and Charité Berlin ran a controlled experiment with 1,276 U.S. adults comparing doctor advertisements that differed only by mentions of AI use.
• Negative perceptions persisted even when AI was used exclusively for administrative tasks, indicating concerns extend beyond clinical decision-making.
• Authors suggest that patient reluctance may stem from a fear that physicians would follow AI recommendations without critical oversight.
• They recommend that doctors proactively explain AI’s role, address potential concerns and emphasize how automation of routine tasks can create more time for direct patient care.