| Abstract [eng] |
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being applied in healthcare systems, however, there is still a lack of insight into specific medical specializations. Family physicians are often the first point of contact for patients within the healthcare system and, consequently, among the first to encounter changes brought by AI. As representatives of primary care, they play a key role in integrating AI into patient care. Despite AI’s significant potential to improve efficiency and outcomes, concerns about data privacy, transparency, trust, and physician autonomy remain. Implementing AI systems without careful attention to ethical considerations poses risks to both the security of patient data and the overall effectiveness of treatment. However, little research exists on how family doctors perceive these challenges, even though their insights are critical for ensuring responsible and human-centered AI implementation in healthcare. Objectives: To explore the opportunities and potential challenges of using artificial intelligence in family medicine practice, and to examine the perspectives of family doctors in Lithuania, with the aim of outlining clear guidelines for the responsible implementation and use of AI within the country’s healthcare institutions. Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted (2015–2025) using Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. A qualitative study explored family physicians' perceptions of AI, focusing on ethics, AI’s role, experience, training, and concerns about replacement. Informed consent and ethical guidelines were followed. Results: AI has strong potential in family medicine, automating administrative tasks, improving diagnostic accuracy, and supporting patient autonomy. AI tools like clinical documentation systems and smart devices save time, allowing physicians to focus on patient care. They also improve diagnostic precision, enabling earlier detection of conditions such as cancer and coronary artery disease. Physicians express concerns about AI's reliability, biases, and data privacy. While AI boosts efficiency, many emphasize the importance of human oversight in decision-making, especially in complex cases. Privacy concerns around health data and the need for stricter regulations are crucial. Lithuanian family physicians generally accept AI as a helpful tool for routine tasks but remain cautious about trust. Job displacement concerns were not prevalent, with AI seen as a tool to augment rather than replace their role. Successful AI integration requires training, transparency, and ethical guidelines to build trust and ensure patient safety. Conclusion: AI enhances efficiency in family medicine but requires structured training and ethical safeguards to address concerns about data privacy, accountability, and bias. AI is viewed as supportive, not a replacement. |
