From pilot to practice: a scoping review protocol mapping the development of AI-enabled solutions for maternal health using technology readiness levels.

Journal: BMJ open
Published Date: Aug 24, 2025

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Maternal mortality remains a critical public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where over 92% of global maternal deaths occur. Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled solutions are increasingly recognised for their potential to improve and expand health services delivered to women. Such solutions can accelerate how health systems address gaps in maternal healthcare, including prevention, early detection, intervention and treatment. However, the extent to which AI-enabled solutions have progressed toward real-world application in LMIC healthcare systems remains unclear. This scoping review aims to systematically map the development of AI-enabled solutions for maternal health by applying the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) framework to assess their stage of advancement. It also aims to identify facilitators, barriers and critical research gaps.

Authors

  • Nico Marquardt
    Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany nico.marquardt@charite.de.
  • Vladimir Choi
    Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
  • Charles Martyn-Dickens
    Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.
  • Marelize Görgens
    Health, Nutrition and Population Global Practice, World Bank, 1818 H Street NW, Washington DC 20433, USA.
  • Sam Mathewlynn
    Nuffield Dept. of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
  • Tobias Kurth
    Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
  • Philipp Bouteiller
    XU Exponential University of Applied Sciences, Potsdam, Germany.
  • Lothar H Wieler
    Digital Global Public Health, Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Engineering, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14482, Germany.

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