Emergency Primary Care Personnel’s Perspectives Toward AI-Based Decision Support Tools: A Qualitative Study in Norway

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems have been suggested as possible aids for decision makers in emergency care. To balance patient safety, cost, efficiency, and professional integrity, we need to understand the views and arguments health professionals have for and against the implementation of such systems. The current study aimed to explore emergency primary care personnel’s perspectives on artificial intelligence-based decision support systems in emergencies in the municipality. Method: This study used a qualitative design with online, semistructured interviews with 12 primary emergency health care personnel. A purposive sampling strategy was used, and participants were recruited either from EPC center or municipal healthcare institutions receiving services from the EPCRU. The data were analyzed following thematic analysis. Results: Four main themes were identified, namely, “Human need, clinical evaluations,” “Balancing skepticism and confidence,” “Digital sparring partner and alternative hypotheses,” and “Health personnel’s role in procurement and development.” The participants emphasized a need for human and clinical assessments to detect illness and initiate appropriate actions. Aspects of skepticism and confidence were also discussed. However, they perceived that AI-based decision support systems could be ideal digital sparring partners. Moreover, all the participants underlined the importance of involving intended users when developing and implementing decision support systems. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the essential role of health personnel in decision-making processes in emergency primary care, as well as in the implementation processes of AI in these services. AI is suggested as a supportive tool that provides safe and trustworthy solutions. These aspects are useful for managers and other decision makers in the transformation of health services for the future.