A new study has revealed that 15% of UK adults are using AI chatbots for health advice instead of consulting their GP. The poll of over 2,000 people, analysed by researchers at King's College London, found that one in four of those turning to chatbots did so due to long NHS waiting lists.
The research highlights potential risks, with a fifth of chatbot users saying the technology did not encourage them to seek professional opinion, and a similar proportion deciding against a consultation based on chatbot advice. Lead author Prof Graham Lord described this as creating 'an unregulated AI healthcare system alongside the NHS'.
Respondents were divided on AI in clinical decision-making: 37% in favour, 38% against. Younger adults (18-24) were more opposed (49%) than those 65 and over (36%). The study is the first to quantify such usage, signalling a shift in how people manage health problems.
Prof Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of General Practitioners, called the findings 'highly concerning', warning that AI cannot examine patients or make safe clinical judgments. She urged patients to use trusted sources like NHS.uk and consult professionals if concerned.
