Radiographers’ Perspectives on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence use on their future roles: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: The advent of artificially intelligent systems in the field of medical imaging has attracted a lot of attention and sparked a lot of discussion regarding the future roles of radiographers. It is widely believed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will revolutionize the entire medical imaging field in the near future and alter the current practice of radiographers.

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore Zimbabwean radiographers’ perspectives on the impact of AI use on their future roles.

Methods: A qualitative explorative design employing in-depth interviews to explore the perceptions of radiographers towards AI use in medical imaging. The study recruited 10 participants and the study was conducted at 5 hospitals in Harare, 2 government and 3 private
hospitals. The interview data was then analyzed using thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke.

Results: Four themes emerged from the interview data. The themes include; Reduce roles of radiographers, Elimination of human errors, Expansion of knowledge and AI will promote radiography.

Conclusion: Radiographers must be trained and have underpinning knowledge of AI.This study recommends that AI use should be included in the curriculum of radiography students.