Research from UK software firm, Propel Tech, which surveyed more than 1,000 professionals across sectors and regions, reveals that between 75% and 80% of respondents in healthcare and related public services believe AI could replace roles in most areas of work. Around three-quarters also agree that AI has the potential to cause more harm than good.

The findings place healthcare among the most anxious sectors in the UK workforce.

A clear perception gap exists between frontline professionals and senior leaders, the survey reveals. Nationally, 80% of early-career workers believe AI will replace people in most areas of work, compared with 65% of senior leaders. Concern that AI could cause more harm than good follows a similar pattern, decreasing with seniority.

Despite this, AI investment is already widespread. More than 95% of senior leaders report active AI investment in their organisations, with awareness also high among mid-level and early-career staff.

The study also shows that healthcare professionals prioritise well-being, training and social responsibility when defining what good software should deliver for employees, reinforcing expectations that AI must support staff and patient outcomes, rather than simply drive efficiency.

David Ritchie, founder of Propel Tech, said: ‘AI is clearly moving quickly into critical services. In healthcare especially, the question is not just what the technology can do, but how it is introduced, governed and explained to the people delivering and receiving care.'

Andy Brown, co-founder at Propel Tech, added: ‘Where AI is positioned as an augmentation tool that improves safety, reduces repetitive workload and strengthens decision-making, trust grows. Where it feels imposed or opaque, anxiety increases, particularly in sectors built on human interaction.'