Asking AI Before the Doctor: Why Chatbot Health Advice Needs Checking
Published
Many people now use AI chatbots such as ChatGPT to look up health questions before they see a doctor. These tools can be quick and easy to use, and they may help people prepare for a medical appointment. However, researchers warn that the information they give is not always correct, and some answers can be unsafe.
Studies have found that chatbot responses to medical questions can contain mistakes. A confident-sounding answer may still be inaccurate, and this can be a problem if someone decides to change their treatment or delay seeking care based on what they read. Experts say that anyone who uses an AI tool for health information should check the answer against reliable sources.
The University of Sydney has published advice on how to use chatbots more safely for health questions. The main message is that AI can help people understand a topic or write down questions to ask, but it should not replace a professional opinion. Patients are encouraged to talk to a GP, pharmacist, or other qualified health worker about any symptoms or concerns, especially if they feel unwell or are unsure about a treatment.
In short, AI chatbots can be a useful starting point, but they are not a substitute for medical advice. Checking information carefully and speaking with a healthcare professional remain the safest ways to get reliable answers about your health.
Sources: The University of Sydney
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