Patient information needs for transparent and trustworthy artificial intelligence in healthcare

Background As health systems incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into various aspects of patient care, there is growing interest in understanding how to ensure transparent and trustworthy implementation. However, little attention has been given to what information patients need about these technologies to promote transparency of their use. Methods We conducted three asynchronous online focus groups with 42 patients across the United States discussing perspectives on their information needs for trust and uptake of AI, focusing on its use in cardiovascular care. Data were analyzed using a rapid content analysis approach. Results Our results suggest that patients have a set of core information needs, including specific information factors pertaining to the AI model, oversight, and healthcare experience, that are relevant to calibrating trust as well as perspectives concerning information delivery, disclosure, consent, and physician AI use. Conclusions Identifying patient information needs is a critical starting point for calibrating trust in healthcare AI systems and designing strategies for information delivery. These findings highlight the importance of patient-centered engagement when considering approaches for transparent healthcare AI.