Global Perspectives on Implementing AI

Authors:

• Prof. Nelly Abulata, MD, MSc, PhD, MBA, PGTQMH (EGYPT)
• Prof. Ahmad Abu Salah, PhD (KSA)
• Prof. Mahmood Adil, MD, FRCPE, FFPH, FFCI (UK)
• Assoc. Prof. Benjamin S. B. Rasmussen, MD, PhD (DENMARK)

Contributors:

• Shareefa Abdul Munem, MSc, CPIMS, Advisor to the Chairman of the Board, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KSA)
• Gwynne Jelbaoui, FHIMSS, Senior Program Manager at HIMSS (USA)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the healthcare sector, offering unprecedented opportunities to enhance patient care, streamline operations, and drive clinical innovation. This white paper, curated by the HIMSS Physician Committee, explores global perspectives on the integration of AI in healthcare, drawing on insights and experiences from healthcare professionals and organizations across multiple regions.

It begins with an overview of HIMSS’ 2024 AI adoption report to establish the current international landscape, then delves into practical strategies, challenges, and innovations in AI adoption.

Key sections of the paper — including a pre-adoption checklist, emerging leadership roles, and an analysis of the pros and cons of hospital-wide AI integration — reflect the views of healthcare leaders and decision-makers from diverse global contexts.

Real-world case studies, such as operational intelligence initiatives at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and AI adoption in radiology in Denmark, illustrate practical applications and lessons learned.

By highlighting both opportunities and potential pitfalls, this white paper provides strategic guidance for healthcare organizations aiming to adopt AI responsibly and successfully, as well as a high-level, cross-regional guide for healthcare professionals seeking to effectively engage with the rapidly evolving AI landscape.