A new study in the United Kingdom has revealed that a growing number of people are turning to AI chatbots for health advice instead of visiting their general practitioner (GP), sparking concerns among healthcare experts.
The research, conducted by scientists at King’s College London, found that around one in seven people are now using AI-powered chatbots for medical guidance. The survey, which included more than 2,000 participants, showed that 15% of respondents had sought health advice from AI tools rather than healthcare professionals.
Among those using chatbots, nearly one in four said they chose AI because of long waiting times within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Researchers warned that this growing trend could create serious risks for patients who rely on unregulated technology for medical decisions.
The study also highlighted worrying behaviors linked to AI-generated advice. About 20% of participants who used AI chatbots said the technology did not encourage them to seek professional medical help. A similar number admitted they avoided booking a medical consultation because of the advice they received from AI systems.
Lead researcher Prof. Graham Lord described the rapid growth of AI healthcare tools as the emergence of “an unregulated AI healthcare system alongside the NHS.” He stressed the need for greater transparency, accountability, and safety standards in the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare settings.
According to the findings, public opinion remains divided over the role of AI in clinical decision-making. Around 37% of respondents supported the use of AI in healthcare decisions, while 38% opposed it. Younger adults appeared more skeptical, with nearly half of respondents aged 18 to 24 opposing AI use in NHS clinical services.
Healthcare professionals have also expressed concern about the reliability of AI-generated medical information. Previous studies have shown that some AI tools, including search-generated summaries, can sometimes provide misleading or inaccurate health advice.
Prof. Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of General Practitioners, warned that patients should not feel forced to rely on AI because of difficulties accessing healthcare services.
She said AI may offer quick responses, but it cannot replace trained doctors who can examine patients, understand medical histories, and make safe clinical judgments. She also emphasized that AI should support healthcare professionals rather than replace them.
Medical experts continue to encourage patients to use trusted healthcare sources and consult qualified professionals when symptoms persist or worsen.