European Health Care Professionals' Readiness, Benefits, and Ethical Concerns Regarding Generative AI in Continuing Education

INTRODUCTION: Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools such as ChatGPT are rapidly transforming health care education. Understanding how health care professionals perceive these technologies is vital for responsible adoption. This study examines the readiness, perceived benefits, and ethical concerns of European health care professionals. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 47 health care professionals from clinical and academic institutions across Europe. The questionnaire assessed familiarity with GenAI, perceived usefulness in education and clinical contexts, ethical concerns, and readiness for adoption. Descriptive and inferential analyses, including chi-square tests, factor analysis, and regression, were applied to address seven predefined research questions. RESULTS: Participants showed limited experience with GenAI but recognized its educational value, especially in preparing teaching materials and supporting student learning. Ethical concerns centered on accuracy, privacy, and loss of human interaction. Familiarity significantly predicted readiness to adopt, while demographic differences (eg, age, professional role) influenced attitudes modestly. Five user profiles were identified, ranging from education-focused to clinically oriented users. DISCUSSION: Findings indicate cautious optimism toward GenAI. Health care professionals see clear educational potential but stress the need for accuracy, accountability, and ethical safeguards. Structured faculty training, institutional support, and AI literacy development are essential to balance innovation and responsibility.