Key insights from public engagement workshops in the UK and Uganda
Cambridge Public Health is pleased to share a new report, Equitable, trustworthy, and safe research in healthcare technology, data, and artificial intelligence: an international dialogue.
The report, led by the International Health Systems Group at the University of Cambridge and supported by Cambridge Public Health and other partners, reflects insights from two community engagement workshops held in January 2024 (Kampala, Uganda) and June 2024 (Cambridge, UK).
The workshops aimed to help shape research priorities by identifying public's concerns and highlighting and proposed solutions from them. Discussions identified five key priority areas for researchers:
- Trust: Building confidence in the safety and transparency of healthcare data.
- Governance: Establishing clear accountability and oversight in AI and data systems.
- Reliability: Supporting human interactions and trustworthy healthcare solutions.
- Access: Reducing barriers to technology adoption for underserved populations.
- Equity: Promoting fairness and inclusivity in healthcare delivery and research.
“These workshops highlight the importance of listening to public perspectives and placing patients, carers, and the public at the heart of discussions,” said Dr. Lekaashree Rambabu, lead author. “By understanding their concerns, we can ensure that research aligns with their priorities moving forward.”
The report provides key recommendations for researchers around the core issues of trust, governance, reliability, access, and equity.