AI in healthcare – what are Britons most concerned about?
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming healthcare, with AI-powered tools like symptom checkers and mental health apps gaining popularity among consumers. These tools promise faster and more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and improved patient outcomes. However, there are also concerns about the privacy and security of personal health data and the potential for AI to perpetuate biases and exacerbate existing healthcare disparities.
To explore consumer attitudes towards AI-powered healthcare tools and their potential impact on the industry YouGov polled 2,012 British adults.
Our data shows that nearly one in 10 Britons (8%) have used an AI-powered healthcare tool in the past and plan to use one in the future. Nearly the same proportion (9%) haven't used such tools in the past but express interest in doing so. It's worth noting that the majority of consumers of this subset expressed concerns about the potential risks and downsides of using AI in healthcare (70%).
When it comes to sharing personal data with AI-powered healthcare providers, only a quarter of consumers (25%) expressed willingness to do so while more than half of Britons were reluctant (52%).
More than half of Britons who either used AI-powered healthcare tools in the past or are interested in using them in the future say they do not trust the medical diagnosis generated from AI-powered applications (53%). However, over a quarter of respondents remained neutral, presenting an opportunity for brands to increase trust by educating consumers through targeted marketing campaigns.
In terms of usefulness of AI in healthcare, two in five Britons polled say that it is only helpful if it reduces the cost of medical treatment. This suggests that cost reduction is a significant factor for consumers when it comes to adopting AI-powered healthcare tools.
While a considerable proportion of Britons polled expressed interest in AI-powered healthcare applications, three in five say they are not aware of them (62%). Healthcare brands using AI may need to address Briton’s concerns over sharing personal data and increase trust to drive adoption. Additionally, cost reduction will likely be an important consideration for many consumers.
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Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provide quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online on 22-23 February 2023, with a nationally representative sample of 2,021 adults in GB (aged 18+ years), using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race to be representative of all adults in GB market (18 years or older) and reflect the latest ONS population estimates. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.
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