Comprehensive Summary
This study explained Canadian occupational therapists understanding, knowledge, opinions, and perspectives on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the benefits and risks it could possibly bring to OT practices. The research was performed using a sequential explanatory mixed method approach. They did this through getting the opinions of 282 therapists and 15 focus group participants. This study showed how there were 3 main themes that emerged: "AI Knowledge and Implementation", "Use of AI in Occupational Therapy", and "Humans vs. Machines". In addition, although OTs had varying understanding of AI, they are open to using AI in practice even though there are ethical concerns that need to be addressed. Ultimately, this study provided deeper insight into the need for further education to prepare professionals for AI in a clinical setting as there is still a need to implement and guide policy changes for technology adaptation.
Outcomes and Implications
This research is important because as AI is continued to play a prominent role in healthcare, OTs will eventually need to learn to adapt this technology. If OTs are able to understand how this technology operates and can utilize it to an ethical extent to ensure safe use, integrating AI will undoubtly allow for a better patient care and OT services. Given that OTs have varying levels of understanding about AI, implementation may vary over the next few years. However, full integration of such technology will take longer depending on advancements of AI, regulatory approvals, and acceptance among clinicians.