Artificial intelligence usage habits in radiation oncology: A survey for patients and caregivers

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the usage patterns, awareness, and trust in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies among radiation oncology patients and their caregivers. Materials and Methods: A total of 83 radiation oncology patients or caregivers were surveyed using a 17-item questionnaire. The survey assessed participant demographics, AI awareness, usage patterns, trust, verification behaviors, and concerns. Statistical analyses were conducted using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: Of 83 participants, 40 (48.2%) were patients and 43 (51.8%) were caregivers. The most common uses of AI were learning about disease (42.1%), treatment options (28.9%), receiving support (16.8%), and appointment-related processes during radiation therapy (12.0%). 82.1% of participants verified AI-generated information by consulting a radiation oncologist. 53.0% of participants expressed concerns about misinformation, 37.3% about the privacy of health data, and 30.1% about reduced human interaction. Higher educational level was significantly associated with AI use (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Radiation oncology patients and their caregivers frequently use AI to access health-related information, but they have concerns about reliability, privacy, and the preservation of human-centered care.