One in seven people in the UK are turning to AI chatbots for health advice rather than consulting their GP, according to a new study. The poll of over 2,000 adults found that 15% had used chatbots for health information, with a quarter of those citing long NHS waiting lists as the reason.
Researchers at King's College London analysed the data and warned of potential risks. One in five chatbot users said the technology did not encourage them to seek professional medical advice, and a similar proportion reported deciding against a consultation based on something the chatbot told them.
Professor Graham Lord, lead author of the study, described the trend as creating 'an unregulated AI healthcare system alongside the NHS'. He stressed the need for greater transparency about AI safety and accountability, noting that clinicians often bear responsibility when AI tools fail, even with limited control over their use.
The study also revealed divided public opinion on AI in clinical decision-making: 37% were in favour, while 38% were opposed. Younger adults (18-24) were more sceptical, with 49% against AI use in the NHS, compared to 36% of those aged 65 and over.
Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said it was 'highly concerning' that patients might rely on AI instead of seeing a GP. She emphasised that AI cannot examine patients, fully understand medical histories, or make safe clinical judgments, and urged patients to use trusted sources like NHS.uk and consult healthcare professionals if concerned.
