Haifa A Fadil, Yaser M Alahmadi

For correspondence:-  Yaser Alahmadi   Email: yahmadi@taibahu.edu.sa

Received: 18 July 2024        Accepted: 4 December 2024        Published: 30 December 2024

Citation: Fadil HA, Alahmadi YM. Evaluation of awareness, perceptions and opinions of artificial intelligence (AI) among healthcare students – A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. Trop J Pharm Res 2024; 23(12):2097-2105 doi: 10.4314/tjpr.v23i12.15

© 2024 The authors.
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Abstract

Purpose: To ascertain the views, knowledge and opinions of healthcare students (HCs) regarding artificial intelligence (AI). Methods: The cross-sectional survey designed to assess awareness, perceptions and opinions of HCs towards AI was conducted between April to June 2023. A pre-tested, validated structured questionnaire was distributed electronically to HCs across different universities in Saudi Arabia. Responses were compiled using a 5-point Likert scale. Cronbach's alpha score of 0.80 was used to establish the reliability of the questionnaire. Mean scores were determined by calculating each item in the perceptions compiled. Results: Majority of HCs had a positive perception towards AI in healthcare and agreed that AI could improve diagnostic accuracy (73.4 %), reduce errors in medical practice (65.2 %) and facilitate patient education (70.8 %). However, some concerns were expressed that AI has a harmful impact on healthcare practitioners' relationships with patients and potential ethical implications (44.3 %) and also allows patients to increase control over their health (51 %). Most students (85 %) believe that if AI is integrated into healthcare, there is a risk of losing jobs. The analysis of multiple linear regression shows that course of study (B = 0.311; SE = 0.132; t = 2.360; p = 0.019; CI = 0.052 to 0.570), awareness of AI (B = -1.822; SE = 0.785; t = -2.320; p = 0.021; CI = - 3.366 to -0.279) were predictors of perception score of AI. Conclusion: Healthcare students show positive perceptions towards AI and agree that AI helps in various aspects of healthcare. However, students revealed some concerns about AI. Therefore, addressing concerns related to ethics, workforce impact and patient privacy is crucial for successful AI implementation in the healthcare sector.