Dermatologists remain divided on artificial intelligence
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By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, January 1, 2021
Once limited to the realm of sci-fi, artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented intelligence (AuI) tools are now in early stages of development. While AI and AuI tools in dermatology may have assistive and efficiency potential, they also pose critical new questions about their implementation, regulation, ethics, and impact on the physician-patient relationship. (Read a PDF of the AAD’s position statement on augmented intelligence.)
Dermatologists are divided on AI in many respects, according to the 2020 AAD Augmented Intelligence Survey. One in two survey respondents believe AI will have a positive impact on the specialty, while the remainder are either negative or uncertain. Negative responses were primarily driven by fears of being replaced by AI, followed by concerns about the absence of a live physician and the nuances that may be missed as a result. According to the survey, dermatologists are more positive about AuI, with two in three agreeing that it would have a positive impact on their practices.
For a more complete breakdown of dermatologists’ perceptions of AI and AuI’s impact on dermatology practice, see below.
