AI and robotic systems in healthcare

The healthcare sector is currently characterized by a wide range of challenges.The shortage of skilled workers, 1,2 ageing societies, 3,4 and the increasing prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases 5 place significant strain on healthcare systems worldwide.In response, AI-driven technologies and robotics are often envisioned as promising solutions to enhance efficiency, improve care practices, and alleviate the burden on healthcare professionals.However, while expectations for these technologies are high, their successful integration into healthcare practice remains complex and demands thorough investigation. [6][7]][8] Much of the research on robotics in healthcare has traditionally been conducted in controlled laboratory settings. 9However, transferring these technologies into realworld environments presents significant challenges, from tackling technical integration, to deploying appropriation processes, 10 and navigating ethical considerations. 11This Special Issue of i-com is dedicated to exploring how AI and robotic systems can be effectively designed, implemented, and evaluated within healthcare contexts.