Navigating AI in OT Practice: Current Usage Patterns and Professional Concerns

ABSTRACT

Background:
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly used across healthcare and have potential to support documentation, communication, and professional development in occupational therapy (OT). However, clinicians often report limited proficiency and concerns regarding accuracy, privacy, and ethical use. This quality improvement project assessed current AI use, attitudes, and support needs among occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapist assistants (OTAs) within one healthcare organization.

Methods:
An anonymous online survey was completed by 35 OT staff of varied ages and experience levels. The survey evaluated current AI use, self-rated proficiency, perceived benefits and risks, barriers to adoption, and desired training or supports. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative comments were thematically reviewed. As this was an internal quality improvement initiative, formal ethics approval was not required.

Results:
Participants reported low–moderate proficiency with AI tools (mean 2.37/5) but recognized the growing importance of AI skills (3.71/5). ChatGPT was the most frequently used tool (n=24), followed by Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot (n=11 each). AI use was most common for creating educational materials (n=18), editing or formatting reports (n=16), and communication tasks (n=14), with limited use for clinical decision-making (n=5). Major barriers included lack of time (n=14), concerns about accuracy or bias (n=13), and limited awareness of available tools (n=10). Key concerns involved inaccuracy (n=30), data privacy (n=29), and potential overreliance (n=28). Desired supports included clear ethical guidelines (n=27) and hands-on training (n=24). Qualitative themes emphasized the need to preserve clinical judgment, ensure accuracy, and provide guidance on appropriate applications.

Conclusions:
OT staff show emerging but cautious engagement with AI, largely limited to administrative and educational tasks. Clear policies, structured training, and peer support are needed to build confidence and ensure safe, ethical integration of AI as a supplemental tool in OT practice.