Dr Shinead Borkovic1, Dr Kylee Lockwood1, Mr Rhys Forrer2
1La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia, 2The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
Biography:
Dr Shinead Borkovic is a Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy and Course Coordinator of the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) delivering high quality teaching and coordination in the undergraduate program. Shinead completed her PhD in 2023 focusing on global professional identity development for occupational therapists. Shinead has led curriculum redesign and strategic projects to decolonise allied health curriculum and has presented at national and international occupational therapy and education focused Conferences.
Abstract:
Introduction/Background:
In a complex, rapidly changing and digitally enabled world, the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare is increasing in popularity among health professionals. This systematic review sought to explore the various ways in which artificial intelligence is used or applied in clinical allied health practice.
Methods:
Using CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and EMBASE databases, a systematic review was conducted. Various search terms were included. Allied health professions included in this study were: art therapy; chiropractic; dietetics; exercise physiology; music therapy; occupational therapy; oral health; osteopathy; orthotics and prosthetics; physiotherapy; podiatry; psychology; social work and speech therapy. All healthcare settings including virtual and telehealth settings met the inclusion criteria. Two independent researchers screened the paper for inclusion. A third resolved any discrepancies guided by the JBI methodology for systematic reviews.
Results/Evaluation:
Among the 5492 articles identified, 1336 duplicates were removed. Following title and abstract screening of 4156 articles, 3958 articles were deemed irrelevant based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the remaining articles, 198 were reviewed in full text. Data extraction is currently underway, and analysis will follow of the included full text articles.
Discussion:
The expected outcomes will highlight the clinical applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare across various clinical settings and allied health professions. Findings will provide important insight into how allied health professionals and/or educators can ethically integrate artificial intelligence into practice and in allied health education to ensure a digitally competent and prepared workforce of future graduates.