Survey reveals concerns around AI impacting role of doctors - Irish Medical Times

2026-06-25 · Source: artifical intelligence via Google News · Field: Health & Wellbeing — Healthcare Systems & Policy, Medical Devices & Health Technology · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

A new survey of 1,000 adults in Ireland, conducted as part of AstraZeneca Ireland's 'Perspectives Matter: Shaping the Future of Cancer Care Together' campaign, reveals mixed public sentiment regarding artificial intelligence in healthcare. While 70% are comfortable with AI reducing waiting times and 64% with it speeding up test results, significant concerns persist. Fifty percent are worried about clinicians using AI for decision-making, and 68% fear AI replacing doctors and nurses. Data privacy (67%) and loss of personal connection (66%) are also major concerns. The survey also highlighted public dissatisfaction with Ireland's cancer services, with only 30% believing the government prioritizes cancer care. Three-quarters (74%) worry about the health system's capacity for timely cancer diagnosis and treatment. Experts emphasize integrating AI carefully, ensuring patient privacy and data governance. They also call for increased investment in cancer care, especially as the National Cancer Strategy expires at the end of 2026.

Key takeaway

For healthcare policymakers developing future strategies, your focus must balance AI's efficiency benefits with public concerns. Prioritize investments in AI tools that reduce waiting times and speed up diagnostics, as these have strong public support. Simultaneously, address anxieties regarding AI's role in clinical decision-making, job displacement, and data privacy through clear guidelines and robust governance. Ensure the new National Cancer Strategy, due by end of 2026, integrates these public sentiments. This will build trust and secure necessary funding for comprehensive cancer care.

Key insights

Public support for AI in healthcare is high for efficiency gains but tempered by concerns over clinical decision-making and job displacement.

Principles

• AI integration must prioritize patient privacy and data governance.
• Healthcare providers should retain final decision-making authority.
• Public trust requires addressing concerns about job replacement.

In practice

• Implement AI tools to reduce patient waiting times.
• Utilize AI to accelerate diagnostic test results.
• Develop AI strategies with strong data privacy safeguards.

Topics

• AI in Healthcare
• Public Opinion Survey
• Cancer Care Strategy
• Data Privacy
• Healthcare Workforce
• Ireland

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by artifical intelligence via Google News.