The American Medical Association (AMA) issued a new report that explores the findings of a physician survey regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

The survey polled 1,692 physicians across various specialties, practice settings, and career stages from January to February of 2026 to assess AI adoption, perceptions, and anticipated impacts in medical practice.

According to the results, over 80% of physician respondents currently use AI in a professional context – double the share reported in 2023. The number of use cases has also grown, with respondents now utilizing 2.3 use cases, up from 1.1 in 2023.

Most current use and excitement is centered on documentation and summarization applications. The use of AI for summaries of research and standards of care has increased in use dramatically since AMA’s last survey, with nearly 40% of respondents using it within workflows –26 percentage points higher than 2024.

Physician sentiment toward AI continues to trend positive. Over three-quarters say AI provides an advantage in the ability to care for patients, an increase from 65% in 2023. Physicians expect the greatest benefits in diagnostic ability and work efficiency.

Seven in ten respondents see opportunities for AI to automate clinical and administrative tasks contributing to burnout. This recognition exists alongside concerns about skill loss – 88% say they are very, somewhat, or mildly concerned. Concerns are more pronounced among physicians early in their career (with 10 years or less in practice).

Ongoing concerns remain around patient privacy, the patient physician relationship, and potential skill loss. Physicians also identified privacy assurances, safety and efficacy validation, and clear accountability frameworks as key factors supporting further adoption.