One in seven in UK prefer consulting AI chatbots to seeing doctor, study finds
12 hours ago
- #patient safety
- #healthcare access
- #AI chatbots
- One in seven people in the UK use AI chatbots for health advice instead of seeing their GP.
- Among those using chatbots, 25% cite long NHS waiting lists as the reason.
- One-fifth of users said chatbots did not encourage seeking professional opinions, and a similar proportion avoided consultations based on chatbot advice.
- Researchers warn of potential risks, including safety concerns and lack of accountability in AI healthcare systems.
- Public opinion is divided on AI in clinical decision-making, with generational differences in acceptance.
- Experts emphasize that AI should support, not replace, clinical judgment and must be transparent and regulated.
- Patients are advised to use trusted sources like NHS.uk and consult healthcare professionals for persistent or worsening symptoms.