Knowledge and Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence Use in Screening for Diabetic Retinopathy in Botswana: Survey for Eye Care Clinicians

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), is one of the most prevalent visual impairments in the country and is on the rise. The study seeks to investigate eye care physicians' knowledge and perceptions on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in screening for DR in the country. Materials and Methods A convenience sample of voluntary willing participants completed an online survey. All information was entered in Microsoft excel and analyzed utilizing SPSS v22.0. Results 83% of clinicians indicated no awareness of AI fundus examinations. 66.7% had no understanding what the word AI meant. 100% of clinicians said they have never used AI software for DR screening. The study's knowledge of the use of AI was tested using "AI fundus exams", and as a result, it was poor. There was a 66.7% positive attitude towards employing AI-integrated workflow vs a 33.3% negative attitude. 50% strongly agreed that artificial intelligence would help the field of DR screening. Conclusion Overall, clinicians have limited knowledge on the use of AI technology. Regardless, they are optimistic about its possibilities, thus AI adoption and training for eye care practitioners on how to use it should be considered in the country's public health system.