Assessment of the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Among Radiologists, Physicians, and Surgeons in Saudi Arabia.

Introduction Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad term that refers to the idea and creation of computer systems capable of carrying out tasks that typically need human intelligence. Radiology, in particular, is becoming increasingly interested in the quick development of AI. There has been much discussion about the possible impacts of AI-based technologies on the development of radiology.  Aim This study aimed to assess medical doctors' knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding the applications of AI in radiology and other medical fields in Saudi Arabia.  Subject and methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among medical doctors in Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the targeted doctors through the Saudi Commission of Health Specialties and an online survey using Google Forms. The survey comprised socio-demographic characteristics (i.e., age, gender, professional level, department unit) and questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward AI in the medical field. Results Of the 382 physicians, 56.8% were males and 71.7% were between 20 and 30 years old. Twenty-nine point six percent (29.6%) knew AI applications while only 12.3% were able to practice AI in the medical field. The overall attitude of physicians toward AI was positive among 26.2%. Increasing age and non-resident physicians were associated with better knowledge and attitudes toward AI application in the medical field. Lack of awareness (41.6%) and lack of proper training were recognized as the most common reasons for the reduced practice of AI in Saudi Arabia. Conclusion Despite optimistic attitudes, physicians' knowledge and practice toward AI application in the medical field were deficient. Younger residents were more likely to exhibit unfavorable knowledge and attitudes about AI while physicians working in the Internal Medicine unit were associated with poor practices. AI is innovating the medical field in various ways. Hence, further, larger studies are required to establish physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding AI in the medical field.