MelaTools-ML preferences study

A multi-methods study to examine patient, public, and professional preferences for the use of Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning (AI/ML) technologies in primary care settings for the assessment of possible skin cancers.

The MelaTools ML preferences study is a two-part study aimed at understanding the views and preferences of the public, patients, healthcare professionals, and data scientists on the use of AI/ML technologies in primary care settings for the assessment of suspicious skin lesions. We aim to evaluate:

• the potential benefits and harms of AI/ML technologies in this setting;
• barriers or facilitators to implementation;
• how AI/ML technologies should be evaluated and endorsed;
• which point in the care pathway AI/ML technologies are most safe and effective;
• where and when technology should be delivered, and by whom (e.g. in nurse clinics);
• and the possible impact of AI/ML technologies on capacity, access and waiting times.

The first part of the project involves examining these views through qualitative interviews with the public, patients, healthcare professionals, and data scientists. The second part of the project is a discrete choice experiment to analyse the preferences of the public, healthcare professionals, and General Practitioners (GPs).