Knowledge, attitude, and practice of artificial intelligence among doctors and medical students in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly across fields, including healthcare, where it is being adopted for diagnostics and patient management. However, research on Saudi Arabian healthcare professionals' understanding and perceptions of AI remains limited.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding AI among medical students, interns, and residents, identifying educational gaps and perceptions of AI's future in medicine.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, targeting medical students, interns, and residents. An online questionnaire collected demographic information, as well as participants' knowledge and attitudes towards AI, and their experience with its applications in medicine. Responses were analyzed statistically for any associations.

Results: Of 374 responses, 98.4% were aware of AI, though only 50.5% could identify AI subtypes, and 48.9% understood its medical applications. Formal AI education was lacking for 59.4%, despite 81.8% recognizing AI's importance in diagnosis. Concerns about AI's impact on jobs were noted by 77.8%. While 62.6% had used AI in practice, 66.6% found it beneficial.

Conclusion: High awareness of AI contrasts with gaps in specific knowledge and formal training. Positive attitudes are tempered by job security concerns. Findings suggest the need for a structured AI curriculum in medical education to improve comprehension and application in healthcare.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; attitude; doctor; intern; knowledge; medical student; practice.