Artificial intelligence has been a big talk across industries, both for consumers and businesses, to aid in productivity and efficiency. Veterinary medicine is not far behind.
In a recent study published by Digitail, a practice management software company, 39.2 percent of veterinary professionals reported using AI tools in their practice. Currently, clinics utilize the technology for imaging and radiology, recordkeeping and administrative tasks, and voice-to-text transcription, among other application.
Additionally, 38.7 percent of the respondents are interested in incorporating AI tools into their practice in the near future, with majority of them believing AI integration into clinic workflows could significantly contribute to revenue growth, employee satisfaction, and client retention, as well as potentially provide their hospital with a competitive advantage.
“Interestingly, there is a direct correlation between the usage and perception of AI tools. Those who have personally tried this technology are more likely to be optimistic and recognize its value in veterinary medicine,” says Sebastian Gabor, CEO at Digitail.
The study, conducted in collaboration with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), collected perspectives from 3,968 veterinary professionals, explores current awareness, perception, utilization, expectations, and concerns around the adoption of AI in veterinary medicine, Additional insights include:
Adoption and sentiment
- 69.5 percent of those respondents who have tried AI tools for professional tasks, report using them daily or weekly.
- There is a direct correlation between the use of AI tools and the level of enthusiasm toward this technology.
Current applications and perceived benefits
- Typical AI applications included imaging and radiology, administrative tasks, and voice-to-text transcription.
- The most commonly cited benefits of AI integration include improved productivity and time savings, reduced administrative workload, and increased efficiency in diagnosis and treatment.
Concerns and drivers of adoption
- The most prevalent concern (70.3 percent of respondents) was the reliability and accuracy of AI systems and data security and privacy (53.9 percent).
- Factors that could inspire AI adoption are the availability of case studies, training, and personal positive experiences, as well as existing integrations of AI within the current software used at the practice.
Infographic courtesy Digitail, AAHA
Gabor says continuous testing, curiosity, and collaboration between all industry stakeholders will be critical in shaping the future of AI in veterinary medicine.
“The perspectives shared by veterinary professionals in this survey shed light on the path forward, indicating a demand for initiatives aimed at enhancing understanding of AI technologies, providing evidence-based guidance on their application in veterinary medicine, and ensuring their ethical and effective integration,” he adds.
For more information on the study, click here.