Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Healthcare Practice and Research: A Cross-Sectional Study of Knowledge,...

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology in modern medicine, offering significant potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. In Pakistan, digital health integration varies across regions, with Balochistan remaining one of the most resource-limited provinces. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding AI among healthcare professionals in Balochistan and explored sociodemographic and institutional factors associated with AI adoption.

An IRB-approved cross-sectional study was conducted using a KAP survey among healthcare professionals in Balochistan (N = 153). Data were collected through in-person and online questionnaires. Descriptive statistics summarized KAP levels. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine associations between participant characteristics and AI-related KAP. Analyses were conducted using SPSS version 26.0, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Overall, 72.5% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of AI, while 39.2% exhibited a positive attitude, and 58.8% reported good AI-related practice. AI was most commonly used in clinical settings (60.1%), particularly in radiology (24.2%) and clinical decision support (26.1%). Participants with higher academic qualifications showed higher odds of good AI knowledge, although not statistically significant. Institutional affiliation was significantly associated with attitudes toward AI; participants from BMCH/Civil Hospital Quetta had lower odds of a positive attitude compared to those from QIMS/CMH Quetta (COR = 0.21; p = 0.008). Higher odds of good AI practice were observed among Medical Officers and participants with longer clinical experience, although not statistically significant.

Despite relatively high awareness of AI among healthcare professionals in Balochistan, positive attitudes and consistent practical use remain limited. Institutional factors influence perceptions of AI. Targeted educational initiatives, structured training programs, and institutional support are needed to strengthen trust and facilitate effective integration of AI into healthcare practice in resource-limited settings.