Perceptions of artificial intelligence in healthcare and rehabilitation: a qualitative study on insights from medical officers and physical therapists in Pakistan.

Background: In healthcare and rehabilitation, artificial intelligence (AI) is being widely used in assistive devices, administration, and diagnostic support. There is, however, little data on how healthcare workers in low-resource environments understand and view the use of AI, especially in different professional groups engaging in clinical decision-making and rehabilitation. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of medical officers (MOs) and physical therapists (PTs) on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and rehabilitation. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted utilising semi-structured interviews with 40 clinicians (20 MOs and 20 PTs) selected through purposive sampling from major public and private hospitals in Peshawar. Interviews were performed both in person and online; audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim; and analysed using inductive theme analysis using Braun and Clarke's methodology. Results: Five interrelated themes were identified: fundamental knowledge of AI, awareness of therapeutic applications, perceived positive outcomes, ethical and pragmatic concerns, and limitations to integration. PTs were more familiar with the application of AI in assistive robotic technology, while MOs prioritised AI usage for the purpose of diagnosis and administration work. Both groups viewed AI as a useful technology to improve clinical decision-making and workplace efficiency, while both groups raised concerns regarding data privacy, autonomy, lack of formal training, and realistic application in the local context. Conclusion: MOs and PTs in KP were cautiously optimistic about the application of AI in healthcare and rehabilitation, with significant concerns formed by ethical, educational, and technical limitations.