Artificial intelligence in medical imaging : knowledge and perspectives of South African radiographers

Abstract

Background: This study focused on determining the perspectives of Radiographers in relation to the integration of AI into medical imaging. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the use of technology and computers to replicate intelligent behaviours and analytical thoughts that are similar to that of humans. Several studies indicate that medical imaging professionals, such as Radiologists and Radiographers, are seeing an increase in the use of AI applications in clinical settings. Diagnostic Radiographers are pivotal for the integration of AI systems into medical imaging as they serve as an interface between technology and patients. Although some studies have examined the perspectives of Radiographers on AI in some African countries, there is still no clear picture of the Radiographers’ perspectives towards AI in the most technologically advanced country in Africa. Aim of study: The study aimed to ascertain the knowledge and perspectives of South African Radiographers regarding the integration of AI in diagnostic imaging in order to provide unique recommendations to support the training of Radiographers. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional research design was used. Non-probability purposive sampling was employed as it is the most appropriate approach for a content analysis inquiry. A self-administered questionnaire containing closed-ended questions was used to collect statistical data from Radiographers that statistical data from Radiographers that met the requirements for participation. On completion of the questionnaires, the results were tabulated and graphically demonstrated. Data was analysed using the latest version 27 of SPSS (the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). Findings: SPSS version 27 was used to analyse the data and various statistical tests such as Descriptive statistics, the Analysis of Variance Model, the Binomial test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, One-sample t-test, Cronbach alpha and Independent samples t-test were adopted to analyse the data yielded by the collection tool. The findings indicated that over 90 % of Radiographers in South Africa are aware of the concept of AI. The majority of Radiographers in South Africa have a positive attitude towards AI as there was significant agreement that AI is beneficial to the various aspects of diagnostic Radiography. While AI possesses many benefits, Radiographers also acknowledge the various barriers affecting the implementation of AI in the medical imaging profession. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Radiographers recognize general AI concepts and are aware of some of AI’s functional roles within the field but are unfamiliar with the more technical components of the technology. Therefore, the introduction of AI in the Radiography curriculum is pivotal to ensuring that Radiographers have a strong foundation for understanding AI. It was noted that Radiographers in South Africa believe that AI will have multiple benefits for their job performance. Inasmuch as AI is equipped with benefits for Radiographers, several barriers that hinder the implementation of AI in Radiography were also noted.