Healthcare professionals and integration of AI

This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing healthcare professionals' (HCPs) intention to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their practice. A cross-sectional survey was administered to HCPs across 10 professional associations in Québec, Canada. A total of 712 HCPs responded to our survey (response rate = 12%). Of these, 484 fully answered the survey questionnaire, comprising 430 (89%) AI non-users and 54 (11%) AI users. A research model was developed based on a combination of widely recognized behavioral theories commonly used in the digital health domain. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The analysis revealed that HCPs' beliefs about the role of AI in their job and profession positively influence their intention to integrate AI into their practice (β = 0.29, p < 0.05). Trust in AI also significantly predicted HCPs’ intentions (β = 0.29, p < 0.01). Digital literacy, particularly familiarity with AI, was found to be another key predictor, influencing both beliefs about AI (β = 0.24, p < 0.001) and trust in AI (β = 0.29, p < 0.001). However, attitudes towards AI's impactfulness and anxiety about AI did not significantly affect HCPs' intention to integrate AI. The study highlights the importance of enhancing digital literacy and building positive beliefs and trust in AI among HCPs to facilitate AI integration. Educational programs and initiatives aimed at increasing familiarity with AI technologies may promote more favorable perceptions and greater trust, thereby encouraging AI adoption in healthcare. Future research should explore these factors in different countries and among various healthcare professions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of AI adoption in healthcare.