JMIR AI · Published 2026-07-17 · DOI 10.2196/89750
Toshiki Miwa, Koh Okamoto, Yuji Nishizaki, Yasuharu Tokuda
Abstract BackgroundAcquiring generative AI (GenAI) literacy and avoiding knowledge collapse and inadequate skill development are critical for resident physicians in the GenAI era, who are highly susceptible to its influence, including those who are current nonusers. ObjectiveThis study examined the degree of GenAI use as a search engine in clinical practice among resident physicians and compared differences in AI literacy and bedside behaviors in the management of infectious diseases between GenAI users and nonusers. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted through an original questionnaire survey administered in January 2025 to participants of the General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE), a nationwide computer-based test for postgraduate year 1 and year 2 resident physicians in Japan. The survey items covered the degree of GenAI use, GenAI literacy, and perceived bedside behaviors. In addition to the GM-ITE score, we collected data on demographics and survey responses. Statistical analysis was performed to compare attitudes toward GenAI use between GenAI users and nonusers. Additionally, the difference in their bedside behaviors in infectious disease management was assessed, adjusted for demographics, the learning environment, and GM-ITE score. ResultsOf 9179 GM-ITE examinees, 2989 (32.6%) resident physicians from 546 hospitals completed the survey. Subsequent analyses were performed in 2850 respondents who answered the question regarding GenAI use as a search engine in clinical work. A total of 1124 (39.4%) participants reported using GenAI as a search engine, while 1726 (60.6%) were nonusers. Only 13% (144/1110) of users relied on it as a primary reference for differential diagnoses. Compared with nonusers, users were more likely to understand limitations such as confabulation (817/1103, 74.1% vs 991/1696, 58.4%; PPPP ConclusionsAlthough GenAI use was not associated with self-reported behaviors indicative of knowledge collapse at this stage, GenAI literacy among resident physicians in Japan remains limited, particularly among nonusers. Given its rapid expansion, education on GenAI in clinical practice may be necessary for both users and nonusers, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical considerations, including transparency, in patient care.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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Miwa, T., Okamoto, K., Nishizaki, Y., et al. (2026). Current Landscape of Generative AI Use as a Search Engine Among Resident Physicians: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR AI. https://doi.org/10.2196/89750