Background Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve healthcare and is likely to impact almost every specialty. However, there is limited research investigating the factors which influence the adoption of AI within a healthcare system.

Research Aims To use innovation theory to understand the barriers and facilitators which influence AI adoption in the National Health Service (NHS). To explore solutions to overcome these barriers, and examine these factors particularly within radiology, pathology and general practice.

Methodology 12 semi-structured, one-to-one interviews were conducted with key informants. Interview data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings A range of barriers and facilitators to the adoption of AI within the NHS were identified, including information technology (IT) infrastructure and language clarity. The factors influencing the adoption of AI were categorised into three themes: the NHS as a System, the People who will be adopting AI and the Technology itself. Several solutions to overcome the barriers were proposed by participants, including education and innovation champions.

Conclusion Education and champions should be explored as facilitators to the adoption of AI in the NHS. Clarity on information governance could support data sharing to develop AI products. Future research should explore the importance of IT infrastructure in supporting adoption, examine the terminology around AI and explore specialty-specific barriers to adoption in greater depth.