AI in Neurological Health Care: Qualitative Study of Patient and Public Perceptions

Globally, health systems face increasing challenges due to improved life expectancy, rising levels of disease, greater expectations for health care, and growing expenditure. AI-based technologies are increasingly used to support clinical decision-making and contribute to effective delivery of care. AI has significant potential in terms of diagnostics and treatment for preventive and personalized medicine, including progressive, nonprogressive, or neurodivergent conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Although AI has been extensively applied to several areas of health, its application to neurological conditions remains limited.

This qualitative study explores the perspectives of patients and the public impacted by neurological conditions on the use of AI in health care in Ireland. It focused on the benefits and concerns regarding AI implementation to inform effective and safe use of AI in clinical decision-making.

We conducted a qualitative cross-sectional study using focus groups of patients and the public (family members). A combination of purposive and snowball sampling was used in participant recruitment. The sample consisted of 15 participants involved in 2 focus groups, most commonly with conditions including early-onset Parkinson disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Qualitative data were transcribed, and thematic data analysis was undertaken using NVivo (version 12; Lumivero) software.

The main benefits of AI in clinical decision-making included improved diagnostics and treatment for neurological health care, increased patient involvement in care and decision-making, and resource efficiency. Participants believed that AI-powered systems could assist with information collation and decision-making, and AI could be an aid in simple repetitive tasks, allowing clinicians more time for clinical work. The concerns included preparedness of the national health data ecosystem, harm resulting from AI application, and overreliance on AI resulting in deskilling. Participants were generally supportive of AI in clinical decision-making; however, their support was conditional on a stringent regulatory framework and human supervision over AI use.

Neurological conditions have a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families, with large resource implications for the health care system. AI has the potential to contribute to significant benefits, such as improved diagnostics, resource efficiency, novel insights, and improved provision of health care. However, the health care system needs to focus on the readiness and availability of health data. This study highlights the importance of preparing health systems for the expansion of AI systems, including supporting clinicians and patients in the appropriate and safe implementation of AI in health care.