JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

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

Objective:

This study explores the perspectives of patients and public impacted by neurological conditions, as well as healthcare professionals (HCP) specialising in the field, on the use of AI in neurological healthcare in Ireland. It focuses on the benefits and concerns regarding AI implementation, to inform an effective and safe use of AI in clinical decision-making.

Methods:

This was a qualitative cross-sectional study, conducted in accordance with the COREQ guidelines. A combination of purposive and snowballing sampling was used in participant recruitment. The sample consisted of 19 participants distributed across two study groups: patients and public (n=15) and HCPs (n=4). The most common conditions affecting patients and public were early onset and other Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. The data was collected through online focus groups during spring and summer 2025. Thematic data analysis was undertaken using NVivo 12 software.

Results:

The results focused on the benefits and concerns regarding AI application in clinical decision-making in neurological healthcare. The benefits included: (1) improved diagnostics for neurological healthcare, (2) increased patient involvement in care and decision-making, and (3) resource efficiency. The concerns included: (1) preparedness of the national health data ecosystem, (2) harm resulting from AI application and (3) overreliance on AI and deskilling. The participants were supportive of AI application in clinical decision-making; however, their support was conditional upon a stringent regulatory framework, and human supervision over AI use.

Conclusions:

Neurological conditions have significant impact on the lives of patients and their families, with huge resource implications for the healthcare system. AI could bring significant benefits to this particular population. While study participants referred to many benefits to AI, they raised concerns on the capacity of the Irish healthcare system infrastructure to support the successful implementation of AI tools. The Irish healthcare system is currently undergoing a digital transformation under a new Digital Framework, where AI is considered a key component. The study findings will help to inform national policy around digital healthcare towards implementation of digital solutions including AI systems. Clinical Trial: n/a