Purpose: This study aims to investigate the current state and sentiment of artificial intelligence (AI) training in North American anesthesiology residency programs, assessing existing AI education landscapes, identifying barriers to implementation, and understanding program directors' expectations for AI's impact on the field. Methods: A cross-sectional survey targeted anesthesiology program directors across North America. The survey, conducted anonymously via Qualtrics, gauged their AI training offerings, sentiments towards AI's influence, and familiarity with AI educational policies. Information on questionnaire development, administration, and data analysis was included. Results: Of the 163 programs surveyed, 32 responded, yielding a response rate of 19.6%. A substantial 81% of responding program directors reported no current AI training. Despite this, 67% anticipate AI's transformative impact. Only 19% currently offer AI/ML training. Standardized presentation of results with accompanying numerators and denominators were employed. Conclusion: The findings reveal a significant gap between the recognition of AI's importance and the current offering of training in anesthesiology residency programs. Barriers to implementation include resource constraints and time limitations, exacerbated by the pandemic. Overcoming these barriers and aligning positive sentiments with educational offerings is crucial for preparing future physicians for the AI-driven healthcare landscape.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This study did not receive any funding

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Ethics committee/IRB of University of Florida waived ethical approval for this work

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All data produced in the present study are available upon reasonable request to the authors