Doctors are embracing artificial intelligence at an unprecedented rate. A new survey from the American Medical Association shows 81% of physicians now use AI tools in their practice – more than double the rate from 2023. The technology helps them summarize medical research, create discharge instructions, and document patient visits.
The rapid adoption reflects growing comfort with AI as tools become more sophisticated. But physicians still want control over how these technologies are integrated into medicine, with clear safety standards and liability frameworks.
Highlights
- 81% of physicians now use AI tools, up from roughly 40% in 2023
- Three-quarters believe AI improves their ability to care for patients
- Top use case: summarizing medical research and standards of care
- 70% of doctors worry about skill loss among medical students and residents
- 85% want direct involvement in AI adoption decisions at their practice
Why does it matter?
The survey of nearly 1,700 doctors shows AI has moved from experimental to essential in healthcare. Seven in 10 physicians see AI as a way to automate tasks that contribute to burnout – a critical issue as healthcare systems face staffing shortages.
“AI has quickly become part of everyday medical practice,” said AMA CEO John Whyte. “Physicians see real promise in its ability to support clinical decisions and cut down on administrative burden.”
However, doctors remain cautious about patient safety and maintaining clinical skills. Nearly half strongly oppose patients using AI to interpret radiology or pathology results, highlighting the need for clear boundaries around AI use.
The context
The AMA launched its Center for Digital Health and AI last fall to help physicians shape how these technologies are integrated into medicine. The organization advocates for clinically validated AI that prioritizes patient safety and transparency.
Current physician use of health AI includes:
- Summarizing medical research and care standards (most common use)
- Creating discharge instructions
- Documenting medical visits
- Supporting diagnostic accuracy
- Improving work efficiency
Despite the enthusiasm, 88% of doctors have concerns about AI-related skill loss. They want robust safety validation (88% consider it critical) and clear data privacy protections (86%) before broader adoption. The medical community sees shared decision-making as essential – not having AI imposed from above, but integrated thoughtfully with physician input.