One in five healthcare professionals use generative AI tools

New research from Veritas Technologies reveals that one in five healthcare professionals regularly use generative AI technologies such as Chat GPT in their daily work routines.

The survey highlights that 17% of healthcare workers engage with these AI tools daily, while 39% use them at least once a week. This study underscores the rising integration of AI in the healthcare sector amid a backdrop of limited formal guidance from employers.

The findings shine a light on how healthcare professionals are leveraging generative AI for various tasks. According to the data, 45% use AI to write emails, 37% to improve their written work, and another 37% rely on it for research. Additionally, 20% use these tools to seek work-related advice. The primary benefits reported include quicker access to information (42%), generation of new ideas (33%), and increased productivity (29%).

Despite the evident uptake and utility of generative AI, over half of the healthcare professionals surveyed (53%) indicated they have received no workplace guidelines on utilizing these tools. This lack of guidance has led to notable frustrations. About a third (32%) of respondents expressed a desire for proper training from their employers on how to appropriately use generative AI technologies. Furthermore, 24% would welcome some sort of company policy, and nearly half (47%) are in favour of government-led regulation of AI technologies.

A substantial majority, over four fifths (81%), of healthcare workers believe that having policies in place is crucial to ensure the correct use of generative AI. Additionally, guidance is considered important to create an equitable workplace (32%) and safeguard jobs (21%).

Richard Wainwright, Field CTO for UK and Ireland at Veritas Technologies, commented on the findings: "The use of generative AI could be game changing for the healthcare sector and help to alleviate some of the pressures that have been facing the sector for several years. However, in order to truly unlock the potential of these technologies - and embrace innovative, new ways of working, employee guidance is essential. Thoughtful and clear communication around the appropriate use of generative AI in the workplace can enable healthcare professionals to unlock its benefits, reducing the administrative burden whilst enhancing patient care."

The methodology for the research conducted by 3Gem included a survey of 11,500 respondents located in various countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, UAE, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea. Specifically, for the UK, 260 healthcare professionals participated in the study, providing a detailed perspective on the integration and reception of AI tools within the healthcare sector.

The emerging usage of generative AI in healthcare settings signals an important shift towards incorporating advanced technologies for everyday tasks. However, the research indicates a pressing need for structured training and clear guidelines to maximise the benefits while mitigating potential risks associated with the technology's adoption.