Keywords: primary care, artificial intelligence

Background:

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to systems that enable computers to perform tasks such as thinking and problem-solving in ways that resemble human cognition. AI is increasingly being integrated into various aspects of daily life, including healthcare. This study aims to explore the perspectives of family physicians regarding the use of AI in primary care and to assess the potential contributions and limitations of these technologies in everyday clinical practice.

Research questions:

How can AI be implemented in primary care?

Method:

This is a qualitative study using purposive sampling to recruit physicians. Following informed consent, participants will take part in face-to-face semi-structured interviews using an interview guide developed by the researchers. Interviews will be audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using qualitative data analysis software. Coding will be conducted based on the transcripts, with themes and sub-themes generated through an inductive approach.

Results:

The study is currently in the preparatory phase. Once data collection is completed, sociodemographic characteristics of the participants and thematic findings related to AI in primary care will be presented.

Conclusions:

The integration of artificial intelligence into family medicine is an emerging area, with a relatively scarce body of literature currently available. This study is expected to provide insights into the current and future role of AI in primary care from the perspective of physicians. The findings will contribute to guiding the development and implementation of AI technologies in ways that are beneficial and relevant to the practice of family medicine.

Points for discussion: