Research on the impact of artificial intelligence technology on urban public health resilience

Urban public health resilience has become a critical focus in the transition to high-quality development, especially in addressing increasing public health challenges. This study explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in enhancing urban public health resilience across 284 Chinese cities from 2011 to 2021. Using a comprehensive index based on resistance, recovery, and innovation dimensions, the study quantifies AI technology levels through patent applications and authorizations, further disaggregating these into invention, utility model, and design patents. A two-way fixed effects regression model and spatial econometric models are employed to analyze the direct and spillover effects of AI on urban public health systems. The results demonstrate that AI technology significantly enhances resilience by improving resource allocation and response efficiency, with stronger impacts observed in eastern and central regions compared to western regions, where economic and technological capacities are weaker. Spatial analysis reveals significant positive spillover effects, particularly from patent authorizations, which enhance public health resilience in neighboring cities through cross-regional collaboration and resource sharing. Despite these advancements, regional disparities in economic development and technological infrastructure limit AI’s broader impact, underscoring the need for targeted policies, enhanced funding, and interdisciplinary training to bridge the digital divide. The findings highlight AI’s transformative potential in fostering urban public health resilience and call for sustained investment and collaboration to maximize its benefits.