Use of AI-based applications by hospital staff: task profiles and qualification requirements

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important for the future development of hospitals. To unlock the large potential of AI, job profiles of hospital staff members need to be further developed in the direction of AI and digitization skills through targeted qualification measures. This affects both medical and non-medical processes along the entire value chain in hospitals. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the skills required to deal with smart technologies in a clinical context and to present measures for training employees. Methods: As part of the “SmartHospital.NRW” project in 2022, we conducted a literature review as well as interviews and workshops with experts. AI technologies and fields of application were identified. Results: Key findings include adapted and new task profiles, synergies and dependencies between individual task profiles, and the need for a comprehensive interdisciplinary and interprofessional exchange when using AI-based applications in hospitals. Discussion: Our article shows that hospitals need to promote digital health literacy skills for hospital staff members at an early stage and at the same time recruit technology- and AI-savvy staff. Interprofessional exchange formats and accompanying change management are essential for the use of AI in hospitals.