Artificial intelligence and patient care: Perspectives of audiologists and speech-language pathologists

Background: Artificial Intelligence has been implemented across various fields, including healthcare, where it has significantly advanced patient care in recent years. The present study aimed to explore the perspectives of audiologists and speech-language pathologists (ASLPs) toward AI in patient care. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design with a convenience sampling method. The questionnaire included 27 questions consisting of demographic details and perspectives towards AI in audiology and speech language pathology services. Descriptive statistics were performed to analyze the data. Results: Ninety-five ASLPs participated in the study, working across different work settings and with a mean age of 28.34 years, ranging between 18 and 47 years. Almost 50 % of participants reported AI tools can be helpful in diagnosis and planning the treatment. About One-fourth (25 %) believed that AI could help in rehabilitation. Few of participants (14.8 %) reported that AI may replace audiology and speech-language pathology services. ChatGPT was the most used platform by ASLPs in their practice. The ASLP clinicians believed AI would revolutionise ASLP practice without alarming effects on their employability. Conclusion: The findings suggest that while AI has potential in ASLP practice, there is still a need for greater understanding and adoption of the technology.