Are we Ready to Use Microchip Implants? An International Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background and purpose: Despite their clear relevance to human life, microchip implants are still widely viewed as negative, threatening our privacy and raising growing concerns about our health. This paper aims to investigate the important factors influencing people’s perception of microchip implants and their willingness to use them for different purposes.

Methodology: The cross-sectional study was conducted in three European countries and the data were analysed using the group Structural Equation Modeling approach. Only complete answers to the online survey questionnaire items were used representing a convenience sample of 804 respondents.

Results: The results show that perceived ease of use, usefulness and perceived trust are significant predictors of intention to use microchip implants. Perceived trust is influenced by privacy and technology safety. Concerns about painful procedures and other health concerns reduce the perceived usefulness of microchip implants. Apart from the predictor health concerns, the results were similar in all countries.

Conclusion: Based on the presented results, researchers interested in investigating the actual use of microchip implants can establish a solid foundation for their research. The results may assist policy makers in developing the regulations to ensure the safe use of microchip implants and allow for a higher level of security. As a follow-up, investigation of changes in the acceptance of microchip implants following the threat of a global pandemic is proposed.