Researchers from the Department of Physical Therapy, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (UVAS) Swat, have successfully published a research article in the internationally recognized journal Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive technology “Web of Science and Scopus indexed journal with an overall 5 year impact of 2.6; Scopus cite score = 5.6. The study, titled “Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Study on Insights from Medical Officers and Physical Therapists in Pakistan,” DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2026.2666389 The research was conducted by Dr. Etisam Wahid, Shahzad Ahmad, Nimrah Humayoon. The research explores healthcare professionals’ knowledge, awareness, and perceptions regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare and rehabilitation services in Pakistan.
The study involved 40 healthcare professionals, including Medical Officers and Physical Therapists from major public and private hospitals in Peshawar. Findings revealed that healthcare professionals recognize AI as a promising tool for improving diagnostic accuracy, clinical decision-making, rehabilitation outcomes, and healthcare efficiency. Physical Therapists demonstrated greater familiarity with AI-assisted rehabilitation technologies, while Medical Officers emphasized AI applications in diagnosis and hospital administration.
Despite their optimism about AI’s transformative potential, participants also highlighted important concerns regarding data privacy, professional accountability, ethical considerations, lack of formal training, and limitations in healthcare infrastructure. The researchers concluded that successful integration of AI into healthcare and rehabilitation requires enhanced digital infrastructure, professional training programs, ethical governance frameworks, and AI-focused educational initiatives.
This publication represents a significant academic achievement for UVAS Swat and reflects the institution’s growing contribution to international research in digital health, rehabilitation sciences, and emerging healthcare technologies.