Objective The adoption of genAI is rapidly evolving all sectors. In public health, emerging genAI technologies have shown promise in facilitating tailored communication, public health surveillance, and administration and decision making. However, adoption of genAI gives rise to several concerns, including the perpetuation of systemic inequities and erosion of public trust. The lack of clear guidelines and directives presents challenges for the responsible integration of genAI. Therefore, this study aims to: (1) explore the understanding of the application of genAI by public health professionals; (2) identify barriers and enablers to responsible genAI use; and (3) explore the perceived governance needs and opportunities for community engagement to guide the responsible and trustworthy implementation. Methods A semistructured interview guide was iteratively developed, and Canadian public health professionals with experience in genAI technology were recruited via purposive and snowball sampling. All interviews were conducted between 5 June and 21 July 2025. Results Data from 13 interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, from which 7 unique themes emerged: (1) uses of genAI and shift in priorities, (2) emerging skills demands, (3) shift in public health values, data use, and equity, (4) governance imperative, (5) organizational-level guidance, (6) importance of fostering trust, and (7) inclusion of community as co-creators. Conclusion These themes offer insight into the complexities and challenges of responsible genAI adoption, underscoring the need for governance and organizational frameworks that support equitable, accountable, and transparent implementation within public health. These themes offer guidance to facilitate the responsible integration of genAI in public health and highlight the national organizational governance considerations.
Shereefdeen et al. (Sun,) studied this question.