Digital Technologies Impact on Healthcare Delivery: A Systematic Review of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine-Learning (ML) Adoption, Challenges, and Opportunities
Ifeanyi Anthony Okwor, Geeta Hitch, Saira Hakkim, S.Kom. Fawwaz Ali Akbar, Dave Sookhoo, John Kainesie
Abstract
Recent significant advances in the healthcare industry due to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have been shown to revolutionize healthcare delivery by improving efficiency, accuracy, and patient outcomes. However, these technologies can face significant challenges and ethical considerations. This systematic review aimed to gather and synthesize the current knowledge on the impact of AI and ML adoption in healthcare delivery, with its associated challenges and opportunities. This study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Articles from 2014 to 2024 were selected from various databases using specific keywords. Eligible studies were included after rigorous screening and quality assessment using checklist tools. Themes were identified through data analysis and thematic analysis. From 4981 articles screened, a data synthesis of nine eligible studies revealed themes, including productivity enhancement, improved patient care through decision support and precision medicine, legal and policy challenges, technological considerations, organizational and managerial aspects, ethical concerns, data challenges, and socioeconomic implications. There exist significant opportunities, as well as substantial challenges and ethical concerns, associated with integrating AI and ML into healthcare delivery. Implementation strategies must be carefully designed, considering technical, ethical, and social factors.