Public Knowledge and Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence–Assisted Physicians in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Yosra Alhindi,1 Hatoun Almoqati,2 Reema Alsaadi,2 Lujain Mohammad Alabbas,2 Munayfah Alhuzali,2 Raghad Alamoudi,2 Huda Khawaji,2 Azam Amin Alharbi,2 Alaa Fallatah,2 Abrar Muharrij,2 Maram Bakheet Alluhaybi,2 Waad Saleh Alotaibi,3 Bashaer Alahmadi,4 Najwa Alqurashi,4 Arwa Fairaq5 1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 2College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 3Riyadh Pharmacies, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 4Family Physician Consultants, Albohyrat Primary Care Center, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 5Pharmaceutical Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Yosra Alhindi, Email yzhindi@uqu.edu.saBackground: Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are increasingly integrated into healthcare systems worldwide. However, successful implementation depends largely on public trust and acceptance. Limited evidence is available regarding public perceptions of AI-based medical consultation in Saudi Arabia.Objective: This study aimed to assess public knowledge and acceptance of artificial intelligence doctors as a partial alternative to human physicians in Saudi Arabia and identify demographic factors influencing these perceptions.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among members of the general public in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, awareness of AI technologies, knowledge of AI healthcare applications, perceptions of AI doctors, and willingness to use AI-assisted medical consultation. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses, and Chi-square tests were performed to examine associations between demographic factors and participants’ acceptance levels.Results: A total of 303 participants completed the survey. Most respondents reported prior awareness of artificial intelligence applications in healthcare. However, acceptance of AI as a partial substitute for human physicians remained cautious. Participants acknowledged potential benefits such as efficiency and diagnostic support but expressed concerns regarding trust, reliability, and ethical considerations.Conclusion: While awareness of AI technologies in healthcare appears relatively widespread among the Saudi public, acceptance of AI-based medical consultation remains moderate. Educational initiatives and transparent regulatory frameworks may enhance public trust and facilitate responsible integration of AI technologies into healthcare systems.Keywords: artificial intelligence, healthcare, public perception, acceptance, Saudi Arabia, physicians