2026 · Article
Awareness, Perceived Usefulness, and Support for Artificial Intelligence Implementation in Healthcare Facilities in Bulgaria: Results from a Pilot Study
Pilot quantitative study among managers of healthcare facilities in Bulgaria
How to cite this article
Georgieva, M., Yordanov, Y., & Koeva, L. (2026). Awareness, perceived usefulness, and support for artificial intelligence implementation in healthcare facilities in Bulgaria: Results from a pilot study. Bulgarian Journal of Public Health, 18(3), 23–34.
Abstract
Introduction
The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare facilities (HCFs) depends not only on technological capabilities but also on managers’ awareness, perceived usefulness, and support for its use.
Aim
To assess awareness, perceived usefulness, current use, and stated support for the future implementation of AI among managers of HCFs in Bulgaria, as well as the associations of awareness and perceived usefulness with the degree of such support.
Material and Methods
A pilot quantitative online survey was conducted among 59 managers and directors of inpatient and outpatient HCFs. A structured 16-item questionnaire was used. Descriptive statistics, Kendall’s rank correlation coefficient τb, and the Kruskal-Wallis test were applied.
Results
Overall, 64.4% of participants rated their awareness as limited or absent, whereas 78.0% believed that AI could improve the efficiency of clinical and administrative processes. The use of at least one application perceived as AI-based was reported in 61.0% of the participating HCFs. The highest support for future implementation was reported for data processing and information systems management, both at 86.4%. The mean number of supported areas increased consistently with the level of awareness, and a positive statistically significant association was identified between the two indicators (Kendall’s τb=0.248; p=0.017). The degree of support also differed significantly according to the perceived usefulness of AI for improving process efficiency (Kruskal-Wallis H=12.291; p=0.002).
Conclusion
The findings indicate a high appraisal of the organizational potential of AI, combined with limited awareness among a substantial proportion of HCF managers. They support a phased approach to implementation, beginning with information-related, administrative, and supportive applications, alongside targeted efforts to strengthen managerial competence.