BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in pediatric healthcare, with the potential to improve diagnostic and treatment accuracy and efficiency. However, parental acceptance and trust are critical for successful implementation. The aim of this study is to assess parents' knowledge, attitudes, and concerns regarding the use of AI in pediatric medicine. METHODS: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH, Southern Area) from 7 to 13 July 2024. Parents of children attending the paediatric outpatient clinics completed a 12-item questionnaire. Data were collected via Google Forms, exported to Excel, and analysed using SPSS. RESULTS: A total of 254 parents participated. The majority were mothers (58%), with nearly half aged 31-40 years (48%). Most respondents had at least a secondary education (36.2%) or a university-level education (56%). Over half reported some knowledge of AI. While 44% supported its use in paediatrics (14% strongly), 50% were unsure. Parents expected AI to assist in diagnosis (57%), reduce clinic visits (43%), and lower costs (22%). Regarding consent, 47% would agree to its use. Concerns included errors due to incorrect data (58%), lack of transparency (18%), and privacy concerns (17%). Informed consent, autonomy, and accountability were rated as highly important by most participants. CONCLUSION: Parents in this study demonstrated moderate knowledge and cautious acceptance of AI in pediatric medicine. While expectations of AI are generally positive, concerns about accuracy, transparency, privacy, and accountability underscore the need for education, clear communication, legislation, and continued physician involvement to build trust and facilitate adoption. RESEARCH REGISTRATION: The research is registered with the IRB of Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.
Mohammed et al. (Wed,) studied this question.