From readiness to transformation: the mediating role of digital maturity in linking ai readiness to organizational change in hospitals

Background: Organizational readiness is essential for AI-enabled digital transformation as healthcare organizations increasingly integrate artificial intelligence (AI). However, empirical evidence regarding the relationship between AI readiness and organizational change, the mediating role of digital maturity, remains limited in healthcare settings. This study investigated the mediating role of digital maturity in the relationship between AI readiness and organizational change. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 300 healthcare professionals from two Indonesian hospitals: Persahabatan Hospital (n = 165) and St. Carolus Hospital (n = 135). Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the measurement and structural models. Results: AI readiness had significant positive associations with digital maturity and organizational change. Digital maturity was positively associated with organizational change and partially mediated the relationship between AI readiness and organizational change. Although respondents reported high digital maturity, their AI readiness remained moderate, indicating a gap between digital capabilities and preparedness for advanced AI implementation. Conclusion: This study provides empirical evidence of the mediating role of digital maturity in the relationship between AI readiness and organizational change in hospitals within a developing-country context. Organizational change was positively associated with AI readiness through direct and indirect pathways, with digital maturity serving as a partial mediator. Strengthening AI readiness alongside digital infrastructure, organizational processes, leadership support, and workforce competencies may facilitate AI-enabled organizational transformation, helping hospitals translate their digital capabilities into effective and sustainable AI implementation.