Artificial intelligence chatbots are increasingly being used by the public for health guidance, offering instant responses at a time when access to GP appointments can be challenging. Their ability to process large amounts of medical information and provide tailored answers has made them an appealing alternative to traditional online searches.

However, concerns are growing about the reliability of this advice. While some studies suggest chatbots can be highly accurate when given full and precise information, their performance drops significantly during real-world conversations. Users often provide incomplete or unclear details, which can lead to incorrect or inconsistent recommendations, including potentially serious misjudgements.

Medical experts have warned that AI-generated responses can sound confident even when they are inaccurate. Research has also shown that chatbots may sometimes produce misleading or inappropriate information, particularly when questions are framed in a way that encourages unreliable answers. This raises concerns about the risk of people relying on incorrect guidance for important health decisions.

Despite improvements in the technology, professionals stress that AI tools should be used cautiously. They can be helpful for general information or guidance but should not replace qualified medical advice. Experts recommend verifying any health-related information through trusted sources, such as NHS services, and seeking professional care when needed to ensure safety and accurate diagnosis.