Threefold model for AI Readiness: A Case Study with Finnish Healthcare SMEs
Mohammed Alnajjar, Khalid Alnajjar, Mika Hämäläinen
TL;DR
This study investigates AI readiness among Finnish health-tech SMEs through six semi-structured interviews, revealing a threefold adoption model (AI-curious, AI-embracing, AI-catering) and three main barriers: regulatory complexity, talent gaps, and financial constraints. It provides a granular picture of how SMEs define, apply, and perceive AI, from data sources to computing environments and future concerns, contextualized within Gartner’s AI Maturity framework. The paper offers actionable recommendations for regulatory reform, talent development, and inter-company collaboration to accelerate AI deployment in healthcare. By mapping SME trajectories and highlighting practical needs, the work informs policymakers, researchers, and industry players on how to foster AI-enabled innovation while safeguarding data privacy and patient safety.
Abstract
This study examines AI adoption among Finnish healthcare SMEs through semi-structured interviews with six health-tech companies. We identify three AI engagement categories: AI-curious (exploring AI), AI-embracing (integrating AI), and AI-catering (providing AI solutions). Our proposed threefold model highlights key adoption barriers, including regulatory complexities, technical expertise gaps, and financial constraints. While SMEs recognize AI's potential, most remain in early adoption stages. We provide actionable recommendations to accelerate AI integration, focusing on regulatory reforms, talent development, and inter-company collaboration, offering valuable insights for healthcare organizations, policymakers, and researchers.