AI vs. Physicians in Surgery, Radiology, and Dermatology: Exploring Public Trust and Preferences in the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and aim: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare, yet public trust and acceptance, particularly in specific medical specialties, remain underexplored. This study assessed public trust and preferences regarding AI in radiology, surgery, and dermatology in the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population. Data were collected via an online survey and in-person interviews and analyzed using SPSS Version 23. Results: Of the 493 participants, overall acceptance of AI across the three specialties was 61.7%. However, only 5.1% reported high trust in AI, while 56.6% were neutral and 38.3% expressed low trust. Trust was slightly higher in dermatology (8.7%) than in radiology (6.9%) and surgery (5.7%). Significant associations were found between AI acceptance and age (p=0.005) and employment status (p=0.038). The frequency of consulting a general practitioner was a positive, though non-significant, predictor for AI acceptance (AOR=1.13; 95% CI=0.820–1.545; p=0.464). Conclusion: While there is moderate acceptance of AI in healthcare among the well-educated public in Northern Saudi Arabia, deep-seated trust remains low. Participants were most skeptical about AI’s role in surgery and most accepting in dermatology. Future efforts must prioritize targeted public education, transparent communication about the capabilities and limitations of AI, and the development of strong ethical governance frameworks.

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