Survey Reveals Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare Workers’ Views on AI

SAUDI ARABIA: A recent cross-sectional study conducted among healthcare workers in private polyclinics in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aimed to gauge their awareness, attitudes, and behaviors regarding artificial intelligence (AI). 

Led by researchers from King Abdulaziz University and Makkah Healthcare Cluster, the study sheds light on the perspectives of healthcare professionals on this emerging technology.

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Findings and Insights

The study recruited 361 participants, predominantly female (62%), with nurses comprising the majority (36%) followed by physicians (25%). The survey revealed that while healthcare workers generally exhibited good awareness and positive attitudes toward AI, concerns about potential job displacement were prevalent. Notably, around three-fourths of the respondents believed they understood the basic computational principles of AI, yet only half expressed willingness to use AI in future medical decisions.

Dr. Adeel Ahmed Khan, one of the authors, stated, “We found that healthcare workers had an overall good awareness and optimistic attitude toward AI.” However, he also highlighted, “the majority is worried about the potential consequences of replacing their jobs with AI in the future.”

Gender Disparities and Occupational Influence

Analysis of the data uncovered certain trends regarding gender and occupation. According to the study, “male healthcare workers had better knowledge scores regarding AI compared to female healthcare workers.” Additionally, it was noted that “administrative employees were found to harbor a more negative attitude toward AI compared to other employees.”

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Despite the overall optimism toward AI, the study underscores the importance of addressing concerns and educating healthcare workers about the potential impact of AI on their profession. As AI continues to integrate into healthcare systems worldwide, bridging knowledge gaps and fostering a deeper understanding of AI’s role is imperative.

Dr. Surbaya SH, one of the authors, emphasized, “There is a dire need to educate and sensitize healthcare workers regarding the potential impact of AI on healthcare.”

Future Directions

While previous studies have explored attitudes toward AI in various healthcare settings globally, this study provides valuable insights specific to the Saudi Arabian context. With technological advancements shaping the future of healthcare, understanding healthcare workers’ perspectives on AI is crucial for effective integration and utilization of this technology.

Further research is warranted to delve deeper into the factors influencing healthcare workers’ attitudes and behaviors toward AI, paving the way for informed policy decisions and strategic interventions in the Saudi healthcare sector.