AI chatbots are increasingly being used for health advice, with companies like OpenAI and Anthropic offering specialized versions. These tools can analyze medical records and wellness data, potentially summarizing test results or preparing users for doctor visits. However, experts caution that these large language models are not a substitute for professional medical care and should not be used for diagnosis.
While chatbots can offer more personalized information than a general web search, they are not infallible and can provide incorrect advice. Medical professionals suggest using these tools responsibly for supplemental information, especially given potential delays in accessing human doctors in some regions. They can provide context from medical history but require detailed input for optimal responses.
For urgent symptoms like chest pain or severe headaches, individuals should bypass AI and seek immediate medical attention. A degree of skepticism is advised when relying on AI for significant health decisions. Even for common conditions, consulting a human medical professional is often preferable due to the variability in individual cases.
Users must be aware that health data shared with AI companies is not protected by US federal privacy laws like HIPAA. Unlike traditional healthcare providers, AI companies operate under different privacy standards. While OpenAI and Anthropic state they keep health data separate and do not use it for training models, users must opt-in and understand the implications.
Independent testing indicates AI chatbots, while capable of performing well on medical exams, can struggle in interactive human scenarios. Studies show users researching hypothetical conditions with AI did not make better decisions than those using traditional methods. Communication breakdowns and mixed information from AI can be challenging for users to navigate.
For increased confidence in AI-generated health information, experts suggest cross-referencing responses from multiple AI tools, similar to seeking a second opinion from another doctor. This approach can help validate information and mitigate potential inaccuracies.