1Reader, Department of Prosthodontics, Tagore Dental College and Hospital, Chennai
2Assistant Professor, M.S. Orthopaedics, Indira Medical College and Hospital, Tiruvallur
3Research Collaborator, Montreal, Canada
4Associate Professor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Al Azhar Dental College, Thodupuzha, Kerala
5Senior Lecturer, Department of Public Health Dentistry, SRM Dental College, Bharathi Salai, Ramapuram, Chennai-600089
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into various health sectors, including public health, where it holds potential to enhance disease surveillance, health service delivery, and data-driven decision-making. However, public perception, awareness, and readiness to adopt AI-based technologies vary among population groups, influencing implementation and policy direction.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the perceptions, awareness, perceived benefits, concerns, and readiness toward the use of artificial intelligence in public health among a diverse population.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 500 participants from multiple educational and professional backgrounds. A validated semi-structured questionnaire was administered electronically. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean scores, frequencies, and independent t-tests, were used to analyze awareness levels, perceived benefits, barriers, and acceptance of AI. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: A majority (89%) of participants reported prior awareness of AI in public health. Female respondents demonstrated significantly higher awareness of AI applications in healthcare (p = 0.038) and confidence in AI knowledge (p = 0.045) compared to males. Most participants agreed that AI could improve diagnostic accuracy, outbreak prediction, and service efficiency. Concerns included data privacy (p = 0.024) and cost-related barriers (p = 0.032). Readiness to adopt AI systems was high, with a majority expressing willingness to use AI tools if adequate training was provided. Support for integrating AI into national public health programs showed gender variation (p = 0.041).
Conclusion: The findings indicate strong awareness and positive perceptions toward AI in public health, accompanied by concerns related to ethics, cost, and privacy. While respondents demonstrated readiness to use AI technologies, successful implementation will require training initiatives, clear regulatory frameworks, and investment in secure and equitable digital infrastructure.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Public health, Perception, Awareness, Digital health, Technology acceptance.
How to cite this article: Gunasekar AS, Selvan T, Rajah S, Thomas A, Fathima L; Perceptions and Impact of Artificial Intelligence among medical and dental practitioner aspect: A Questionnaire Based cross- sectional Study...Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16 (13s): 49-54; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.13s.5
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: Nil.