Key points from article :
A recent poll of 7,200 people, commissioned by the Health Foundation, reveals that most individuals are open to sharing some of their personal health data to aid the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the NHS. Around 75% of respondents support the use of their health data, particularly for areas like eye health, medications, and long-term illnesses. However, people remain cautious about the idea of losing human interaction with healthcare professionals, with many expressing concerns about AI tools like care robots or algorithms used to decide treatment.
While a significant portion of the public is comfortable with AI supporting tasks such as analysing scans and scheduling appointments, there is hesitation towards sharing more sensitive data. Only 47% of participants are willing to share smartphone-tracked data, and even fewer are comfortable with sharing sexual health information. Additionally, many do not want the NHS to access shopping data or social media information, showing a clear preference for privacy.
The survey also highlighted a socio-economic divide, with lower-income households less supportive of data sharing compared to higher-income groups. Despite these concerns, trust in the NHS to safeguard personal data remains strong, and overall, 51% of respondents believe technology has improved healthcare. Dr. Malte Gerhold of the Health Foundation emphasized that public support is crucial for advancing the NHS’s digital transformation and harnessing the benefits of AI in healthcare.
