Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Jun 23, 2026
Date Accepted: Aug 17, 2026
Stakeholder Perspectives on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Diabetes Care: Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies
ABSTRACT
Background:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being increasingly integrated into diabetes care, with growing evidence supporting its potential to improve clinical decision-making, risk prediction, and self-management. However, the lived experiences, expectations, and concerns of those involved in its implementation remain insufficiently synthesized.
Objective:
This review aimed to synthesize qualitative evidence on stakeholder perspectives regarding the integration of AI into diabetes management.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO from database inception to February 17, 2026. Fourteen qualitative studies were included and analyzed using thematic synthesis. Confidence in the review findings was assessed using the GRADE-CERQual approach.
Results:
The included studies represented more than 738 participants, including people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, caregivers, primary care physicians, specialists, and administrators. Four analytical themes were identified: first, AI was perceived as a tool with the potential to enhance clinical utility through improved prevention, diagnostic precision, and management efficiency; second, AI-enabled technologies were viewed as supporting patient empowerment and self-management through personalized, continuous support; third, adoption was constrained by barriers related to trust, data security, accountability, and concerns about preserving professional autonomy and human-centered care; and fourth, successful implementation was considered dependent on technical reliability, usability, integration into clinical workflows, and tailored education for different stakeholder groups. Confidence in the findings ranged from moderate to high.
Conclusions:
The successful adoption of AI in diabetes care requires balancing its perceived clinical benefits with persistent concerns about trust, transparency, safety, and the preservation of the human dimension of care. Implementation strategies should prioritize explainability, usability, data governance, and stakeholder-specific education to ensure that AI technologies complement, rather than disrupt, person-centered diabetes management. Clinical Trial: PROSPERO CRD420251010095.
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