Exploring Physicians’ Perception of Artificial Intelligence Applications at National Liver Institute Hospital, Egypt: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping healthcare industry by utilizing advanced algorithms & computational models to enhance clinical practices, patient outcomes and healthcare systems. The objective was to assess the perception of physicians regarding utilization of artificial intelligence applications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. The study targeted physicians working at the National Liver Institute Hospital, Menoufia University, Egypt. Data were gathered using an online self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total 250 physicians were included. The mean age was 35.5±6.5 years and 56% of physicians were females. Physicians’ perception regarding AI applications varied, with the majority (52%) had moderate perception, 26% having a low perception, and 22% showing a high perception. Approximately 131 (38%) physicians had good knowledge about AI. Statistically significant differences were found between AI perception levels and Socio-demographic data including age, job title, and years of experience. Younger physicians (mean age 29.2±6.1 years) were more likely to have a high perception of AI than while older physicians (mean age 40.7±6.9 years). Resident physicians (43.6%) and assistant lecturers (32.7%) were more likely to have a high perception of AI, whereas professors (1.2%) had a lower perception. Physicians with less than 10 years of experience (81.8%) generally had a higher perception of AI compared to those over 10 years of experience (92.3%) who showed a lower perception. Conclusions: Although the findings suggest a generally positive attitude towards AI among physicians, there is still a need for education and discussion about its role and how to improve its utilization.