AI-driven decision support systems and epistemic reliance: a qualitative study on obstetricians' and midwives' perspectives on integrating AI-driven CTG into clinical decision making.

"Declarations Ethics approval and informed consent to participateThis study received ethical approval from the Medical Sciences Interdivisional Research Ethics Committee (MS IDREC), a subcommittee of the Central University Research Ethics Committee (MS IDREC; R76709/RE001). The research protocol, research materials (including Participant Information Sheet, Informed Consent Form, advertising materials), and processes, including the informed consenting process described below, were assessed and approved by MS IDREC (MS IDREC; R76709/RE001). All methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations.Prospective research participants were sent the Participant Information Sheet and Informed Consent Form up to 4 weeks prior to interviews taking place. They were given the opportunity to ask questions about the project and research procedures, as well as consider whether they wanted to participate in this study. Remote, online interviews were scheduled to suit participants’ availability. Informed verbal consent was taken at the start of the remote interview. The interviewer (RD) read aloud the consent form and signed each consent statement on behalf of the consenting participant. The Informed Consent Form was completed and scanned by the interviewer (RD), which was then stored in a secure location, including the original hard copy. The interviewer (RD) reminded participants on the day of the interview that they could withdraw consent and cease participation from the study, and that the data would be destroyed. Participants were asked at the start of interviews if they had any further questions about the study or wanted any clarifications about the procedures. Consent for publicationNot applicable. Competing interestsThe authors declare no competing interests. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests."

"Funding This study was funded by the UK National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR202117). The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care. AK is supported by her NPDH Senior Fellowship."