Abstract
Drones, a small aviation craft that can hold sensors and be directed to certain locations, have been explored and utilized in domains such as public safety, traffic monitoring, and healthcare. Yet, the scientific research of drone usage still in progress. This article investigates the following: (1) how the public perceives a drone as a healthcare tool, and (2) what the concerns are of public acceptance of drones in healthcare. A qualitative approach with demographic questions such as participants' age, education level, current knowledge of drones, as well as willingness to learn about the technology was used. The contribution is to have an understanding of how the public perceives drones. The results can be used in enhancing public views of drones through skilled personnel and an educated workforce. In a conservative community such as Saudi Arabia, the public holds a relatively positive attitude towards drones. Respondents are aware of such technology from different sources, mainly TV news. Informants also did show a decent level of perceived beneficial usage of drones in healthcare. There are few participants who disclosed concerns of safety, security, and privacy for the usage of drones in healthcare due to a lack of knowledge about the technology. The results propose that government and industry stakeholders should invest more in increasing public awareness of technology. Media coverage will likely influence the public view and help the community move forward.