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. 2024 Oct 24;63(4):692-703.
doi: 10.1515/cclm-2024-1016. Print 2025 Mar 26.

A comprehensive survey of artificial intelligence adoption in European laboratory medicine: current utilization and prospects

Janne Cadamuro  1 , Anna Carobene  2 , Federico Cabitza  3   4 , Zeljko Debeljak  5   6 , Sander De Bruyne  7   8 , William van Doorn  9 , Elias Johannes  10   11 , Glynis Frans  12 , Habib Özdemir  13   14 , Salomon Martin Perez  15 , Daniel Rajdl  16 , Alexander Tolios  17 , Andrea Padoan  18 ; European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine Working Group on Artificial Intelligence
Affiliations
Free article

A comprehensive survey of artificial intelligence adoption in European laboratory medicine: current utilization and prospects

Janne Cadamuro et al. Clin Chem Lab Med. .
Free article

Abstract

Background: As the healthcare sector evolves, Artificial Intelligence's (AI's) potential to enhance laboratory medicine is increasingly recognized. However, the adoption rates and attitudes towards AI across European laboratories have not been comprehensively analyzed. This study aims to fill this gap by surveying European laboratory professionals to assess their current use of AI, the digital infrastructure available, and their attitudes towards future implementations.

Methods: We conducted a methodical survey during October 2023, distributed via EFLM mailing lists. The survey explored six key areas: general characteristics, digital equipment, access to health data, data management, AI advancements, and personal perspectives. We analyzed responses to quantify AI integration and identify barriers to its adoption.

Results: From 426 initial responses, 195 were considered after excluding incomplete and non-European entries. The findings revealed limited AI engagement, with significant gaps in necessary digital infrastructure and training. Only 25.6 % of laboratories reported ongoing AI projects. Major barriers included inadequate digital tools, restricted access to comprehensive data, and a lack of AI-related skills among personnel. Notably, a substantial interest in AI training was expressed, indicating a demand for educational initiatives.

Conclusions: Despite the recognized potential of AI to revolutionize laboratory medicine by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, European laboratories face substantial challenges. This survey highlights a critical need for strategic investments in educational programs and infrastructure improvements to support AI integration in laboratory medicine across Europe. Future efforts should focus on enhancing data accessibility, upgrading technological tools, and expanding AI training and literacy among professionals. In response, our working group plans to develop and make available online training materials to meet this growing educational demand.

Keywords: artificial intelligence; digital medicine; new technologies.

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