Everyday Diagnostic Work in the Histopathology Lab: CSCW Perspectives on the Utilization of Data-Driven Clinical Decision Support Systems

Abstract

In this paper we present an ethnographic study of the work of histopathologists as they grapple with the twin innovations of transitioning to digital biopsy images and the prospective adoption of an AI-based clinical decision support system (CDSS). We explore how they are adapting to the former and their expectations of the latter. The study’s ethnomethodologically-informed ethnography approach brings to light some key issues regarding the nature of diagnostic work, and accountability and trust that are central to the successful adoption of technological innovations in clinical settings.