Perceptions and Insights: A Qualitative Assessment of an AI-Assisted Psychiatric Triage System Implemented in an Outpatient Hospital Setting

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The Canadian healthcare system is approaching a breaking point. With mental health being a leading cause of disability, innovative solutions are necessary to provide adequate care. Digital mental health programs, such as electronic cognitive behavioural therapy (eCBT), have proven effective in reducing the challenges of traditional psychotherapy such as long waitlists, stigma, geographic barriers, and reducing time constraints. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) has shown potential utility within the healthcare system, particularly in treatment recommendations and improving patient engagement. Despite the benefits that AI and digital mental health programs provide, they are rarely implemented in real-world healthcare settings. Objective This study aims to explore patient experiences and perceptions of an AI-assisted triage system paired with a digital psychotherapy program. The objective is to highlight the potential modifiable barriers to implementing these digital systems in real-world healthcare settings. Methods 45 adult outpatient psychiatry patients (n=45) who used an AI-assisted triaging system and digital psychotherapy modules, were surveyed through Qualtrics. This survey examined their perceptions of AI within mental healthcare, its utility within triaging, and their experiences with the digital psychotherapy program. Free-text survey responses were independently coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Thematic analysis revealed three major themes for client’s perceptions of the AI-assisted triage system: (1) AI as a replacement, (2) the utility of AI, and (3) AI complexity recognition. For the digital psychotherapy program, the themes were: (1) interactions with technology, (2) online therapy program structure, and (3) differential user experience. Conclusion Participants highlighted the importance of human oversight to ensure accuracy and liked that the AI allowed them to access care faster. Suggestions for improving the digital psychotherapy program included enhancing user-friendliness, increasing human contact, and making it more accessible for neurodivergence.

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