Exploring the potential of AI in Scotland’s public health and healthcare systems
Published: 23 April 2025
A report that sheds light on the transformative possibilities and important considerations in the adoption of AI within Scotland’s Public Health and healthcare systems has been published by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health.
A report that sheds light on the transformative possibilities and important considerations in the adoption of AI within Scotland’s Public Health and healthcare systems has been published by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health (GCPH).
'The Potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Public Health and Healthcare Systems in Scotland' explores AI’s evolving role, and the importance of public engagement, awareness, trust and transparency in shaping AI’s future within healthcare.
The report highlights AI’s capacity to supplement clinical practice and decision-making, analyse at speed vast amounts of complex population health data, improve healthcare systems efficiency, and personalise patient care. However, it also underscores ethical considerations, and the need for robust governance to mitigate risks such as algorithmic biases, and to coordinate and support evaluation of AI implementations in Scotland’s healthcare settings.
Report author and Public Health Programme Manager at the GCPH Chris Harkins said: "The expanding use of technology and specifically AI in Public Health and healthcare systems will potentially be one of the most strategic advancements facing the NHS over the next 50 years.
"Our report emphasizes the importance of public awareness, engagement, effective evaluation and oversight to ensure AI serves as a tool for good - one that enhances, rather than diminishes the values of the NHS and human-led care."
As Scotland’s AI strategy is set for renewal in 2026, this report serves as a timely resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public. The findings encourage a balanced approach to AI development and integration- one that prioritises patient safety, ethical responsibility, and inclusivity.
The research found gaps in transparency and evaluation, with a lack of centralised, up-to-date information on AI trials and pilots in Scotland’s healthcare sector raising concerns about public awareness and understanding.
AI’s revolutionary impact was also discussed. Unlike the Industrial Revolution, AI’s rapid advancements in automation, innovation, and global reach demand proactive and equality-focussed governance and policy adaptation.
The report calls for greater efforts to involve the public in discussions about AI implementation, ensuring it is ethical, patient-centred, and inclusive.
Drawing from previous public-sector IT failures, the report urges careful planning, responsible implementation, and a focus on addressing health inequalities.
It makes recommendations for Scotland’s AI strategy, including a central AI repository, enhanced research capacity, and AI evaluation frameworks to build public trust and ensure effective, safe deployment of AI in healthcare.
First published: 23 April 2025