Saudi medical students show high healthcare AI awareness, but worry about job security

A cross-sectional study conducted from February to December 2023, titled ‘The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping the Future Careers of Medical Students in Saudi Arabia,’ examined percepations on the impact of AI on the careers of medical students in Saudi Arabia. The study revealed that many students are concerned about AI’s potential impact on job security.

The survey included approximately 400 Saudi male and female students enrolled in medical programs, focusing on those in their fourth, fifth, and sixth years, as well as intern doctors.

Notably, a significant majority (75.4%) of participants reported having a background in AI, and 88.9% of respondents valued AI’s capacity to enhance medical education. However, 42.5% expressed concerns about AI potentially causing job displacement. Female students (32.4%) were more likely to express these concerns compared to male students (26.1%). Interestingly, participants who recognised AI’s potential to reduce medical errors were also more likely to worry about their future job security.

The study was published on Cureus in September 2024.