Arabic version: دراسة تكشف عن تزايد تفضيل روبوتات الدردشة الذكية على الأطباء في المملكة المتحدة

One in seven people are using AI chatbots for health advice instead of seeing their GP, a UK study has found. This trend is influenced significantly by long NHS waiting lists, with a quarter of chatbot users citing this as a reason for their choice.

The research, conducted by King’s College London and involving over 2,000 participants, highlights potential risks associated with relying on AI for medical guidance. Notably, one-fifth of respondents indicated that the technology did not encourage them to seek a professional opinion, while a similar percentage decided against consulting a healthcare professional based on information provided by a chatbot. According to The Guardian, this is the first study to quantify the use of AI chatbots for health advice in the UK.

Prof. Graham Lord, the lead author of the study, expressed concern regarding the emergence of an unregulated AI healthcare system alongside the NHS. He emphasized the need for transparency in the use of AI tools, stating that responsibility often falls on clinicians when issues arise, despite their limited control over AI implementation.

Public opinion is divided on the use of AI in clinical decision-making, with 37% in favor and 38% against. Younger respondents, particularly those aged 18 to 24, showed greater opposition to AI’s clinical application compared to older individuals.

Prof. Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of General Practitioners, cautioned against relying on AI for medical advice, stressing that while AI can provide quick answers, it cannot examine a patient, fully understand their medical history, pick up on subtle signs, or make safe clinical judgments based on evidence. She urged patients to consult trusted sources and healthcare professionals for any health concerns, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.