The effect of anxiety toward AI-based health technologies on attitudes toward the use of telemedicine services: The mediating role of online privacy perception

Introduction This study aimed to examine the effect of individuals’ anxiety toward AI-based health technologies on their attitudes toward the use of telemedicine services and to determine the mediating role of online privacy perception in this relationship. Methods Designed within a quantitative research approach, the study employed a cross-sectional design. Data were collected through an online survey from 404 participants aged 18 years and older living in Istanbul, selected using convenience sampling. The Artificial Intelligence Anxiety Scale, the Telemedicine Service Attitude Scale, and the Online Privacy Perception Scale were used as data collection instruments. The reliability levels of the scales were found to be satisfactory. Results The findings showed that AI anxiety had a direct negative effect on attitudes toward telemedicine services, while also increasing online privacy perception. Online privacy perception negatively affected attitudes toward the use of telemedicine services. Mediation analysis indicated that online privacy perception had a significant and partial mediating role in the effect of AI anxiety on telemedicine use (β = −0.651; p < 0.001). Discussion The findings suggest that individuals’ psychological concerns and privacy-related perceptions are important determinants of the adoption of digital health services. Accordingly, reducing AI-related anxiety and strengthening privacy assurance may support more positive attitudes toward telemedicine services.