Evaluating the use of drones within medical logistics: A patient-focused qualitative evaluation

Drone technologies offer significant promise for enhancing medical logistics, particularly in rural and remote areas. However, despite several pilot trials across the UK, there remains a lack of evidence regarding patient perceptions of drone integration in routine healthcare delivery. This study aimed to explore patient perspectives on the use of drones in medical logistics, with a focus on cost, safety, and impact on quality of life amongst three medical areas (chemotherapy, lab diagnostics and blood products). A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and small focus groups was conducted with 26 participants from five Scottish health boards. Participants were recruited via NHS engagement leads, community networks, and snowball sampling. Data were collected via Microsoft Teams and analysed thematically using an inductive approach. Eight key themes emerged: Acceptance, Knowledge of drones, Potential use within the NHS, Potential impact, Concerns, Public perception, Support networks, and Future innovation. Participants expressed cautious optimism, highlighting potential benefits including improved access in rural areas, reduced travel burdens, and environmental gains. Concerns included technical reliability, regulatory complexity, data privacy, and the risk of increasing health inequities. Drones were viewed by patients as a promising complement to existing medical logistics, especially for emergency and rural applications. However, successful integration demands transparent communication, co-design with stakeholders, robust regulatory planning, and sustainable funding models to ensure equitable and safe implementation.