Analysis of Hotspots and Trends in China's Intelligent Healthcare Field Based on Citespace

Abstract

Objective To analyse the current state of intelligent healthcare research in China and explore key research areas and development trends within this field. Methods Literature related to intelligent healthcare research published between 2016 and 2025 was retrieved from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). CiteSpace software was employed for bibliometric analysis and knowledge map visualisation. Results Publication volume exhibited fluctuating growth, with low collaboration density among core authors and institutions indicating insufficient integration of research capabilities. Research focus was clearly centred on medical devices, smart healthcare, and its legal and ethical dimensions. Conclusion Based on these findings, this study reveals that while the intelligent healthcare regulatory domain is experiencing vigorous development, it faces dual challenges: fragmented research efforts and a governance system lagging behind technological advancement. Recommendations include deepening the application of key technologies such as machine learning and the Internet of Things, strengthening interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaborative innovation, and establishing a compatible legal, regulatory, and ethical governance framework to ensure the healthy and sustainable development of the intelligent healthcare sector.