Majority of AI users trust chatbots over doctor advice, survey finds

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 00:27 · Archive

One in seven Americans trust AI chatbots as much as they trust a doctor, according to new research by Talker Research for MD Live. Among Americans who use AI for health purposes, 60% said they would believe AI-generated health advice even if it contradicted guidance from a healthcare provider. Nearly two-thirds of AI users admit they have followed health advice from AI without first confirming it with a healthcare provider.

Respondents said they rely on AI because it is conveniently available at any time, faster than seeing a doctor, and provides reassurance about health concerns. Half of respondents said that if AI gives them a clear or reassuring response about their health, they are likely to accept it without questioning it. Among millennial parents who use AI for health purposes, 58% admit they have acted on AI-generated health advice for their children without first confirming it with a healthcare provider.

British psychologists have sounded the alarm over AI chatbots providing mental health advice. A survey conducted by the British Psychological Society found that psychologists have noted a 49% increase in the number of patients seeking support from chatbots in the past year. Nearly 88% of survey participants warned that patients are relying too heavily on AI, while around 76% said it is negatively affecting client wellbeing. Dr Laura Dean, president of the BPS, said the risk of unregulated AI chatbots providing 'unqualified and harmful advice' remains 'very real', and warned that integration of AI into healthcare 'can only work with the right safeguards'.

How it is being reported

• Psychologists issue warning over ‘harmful’ mental health advice from AI chatbotsA new survey conducted by the BPS found nine in ten psychologists are concerned over their patients’ use of AIThe Independent · 30 Oct, 00:01
• Majority of AI users trust chatbots over doctor advice, new survey suggestsOne in seven Americans trust AI chatbots as much as they trust a doctor, according to new research.New York Post · 29 Oct, 17:40

In this story: Talker Research · MD Live by Evernorth · British Psychological Society · Dr Laura Dean

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log