Exploring potential of AI usage in the knowledge and evidence services of a public health body: a working group approach

Abstract

AbstractThe UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)’s Knowledge and Library Services (KLS) established an Artificial Intelligence (AI) working group in 2022 to explore potential applications of AI of relevance to its function. This paper describes the working group’s approach to testing and evaluating AI and machine learning-assisted tools for information retrieval and evidence review processes, including duplicate reference removal, citation searching, title and abstract screening, full text screening, data extraction and critical appraisal. Initial tests have demonstrated varying degrees of potential for implementation, while also contributing to broader discussions on ethical considerations, copyright and licensing issues, transparency of AI methodology and evidence integrity. This overview outlines the methodology used and insights gained from navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape and its potential implications for knowledge and library services within a public health organisation.