Patient Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in Gastroenterology: A Multicenter Survey of Knowledge, Concerns, and Beliefs.
Publication Title
The American journal of gastroenterology
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2026
Keywords
Humans; Female; Male; Cross-Sectional Studies; Middle Aged; Artificial Intelligence; Gastroenterology; Adult; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Surveys and Questionnaires; Aged; Trust; artificial intelligence; clinical decision support; digital literacy; endoscopy; ethics in medicine; health technology; healthcare disparities; patient perspectives; patient trust.; washington; swedish; artificial intelligence
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Artificial intelligence (AI) is being increasingly integrated into gastroenterology (GI) through image-based diagnostic and clinical decision support tools. Although clinician perspectives have been reported, little is known about patient understanding and attitudes toward AI. This study aimed to evaluate patient knowledge, concerns, and beliefs regarding the use of AI in GI care.
METHODS: A multicenter, cross-sectional survey of adult patients presenting to GI clinics and endoscopy units in Ontario (Canada), Missouri, and Florida (United States) was conducted. Participants completed a 25-item questionnaire assessing AI familiarity, trust, concerns, and beliefs about physician vs AI roles. Demographic and socioeconomic data were also collected. Likert-based responses were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and post hoc Dunn tests to evaluate associations across subgroups.
RESULTS: Among 265 invited participants, 230 (87%) completed the survey; 59% were female, and mean age was 50 years. Although 60% reported limited AI knowledge, 61% believed AI could complement physician care. Trust in AI was moderate and significantly associated with higher levels of education, income, employment, and by region ( P < 0.01). Concerns about reliability (60%), data privacy (47%), and healthcare costs (45%) were common, particularly among racial minorities and individuals with lower education or income ( P < 0.05). Notably, 93% felt that physicians should retain final clinical decision-making authority, and 74% emphasized the importance of being informed when AI is used in their care.
DISCUSSION: Patients in GI settings generally support AI as an assistive tool but prioritize physician oversight and transparency. Addressing knowledge gaps and demographic disparities is essential for equitable AI adoption in clinical GI.
Area of Special Interest
Digestive Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Gastroenterology
Specialty/Research Institute
Biomedical Ethics
Specialty/Research Institute
Health Information Technology
DOI
10.14309/ajg.0000000000003938
