Analyzing Barriers and Enablers for the Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence Innovations into Radiology Practice: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objectives: This scoping review was conducted to determine the barriers and enablers associated with the acceptance of artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-enabled innovations into radiology practice from a physician’s perspective. Methods: A systematic search was performed using Ovid Medline and Embase. Keywords were used to generate refined queries with the inclusion of computer-aided diagnosis, artificial intelligence, and barriers and enablers. Three reviewers assessed the articles, with a fourth reviewer used for disagreements. The risk of bias was mitigated by including both quantitative and qualitative studies. Results: An electronic search from January 2000 to 2023 identified 513 studies. Twelve articles were found to fulfill the inclusion criteria: qualitative studies (n = 4), survey studies (n = 7), and randomized controlled trials (RCT) (n = 1). Among the most common barriers to AI implementation into radiology practice were radiologists’ lack of acceptance and trust in AI innovations; a lack of awareness, knowledge, and familiarity with the technology; and perceived threat to the professional autonomy of radiologists. The most important identified AI implementation enablers were high expectations of AI’s potential added value; the potential to decrease errors in diagnosis; the potential to increase efficiency when reaching a diagnosis; and the potential to improve the quality of patient care. Conclusions: This scoping review found that few studies have been designed specifically to identify barriers and enablers to the acceptance of AI in radiology practice. The majority of studies have assessed the perception of AI replacing radiologists, rather than other barriers or enablers in the adoption of AI. To comprehensively evaluate the potential advantages and disadvantages of integrating AI innovations into radiology practice, gathering more robust research evidence on stakeholder perspectives and attitudes is essential.