AI & Health: 32% Use Chatbots for Medical Advice – KFF Poll Findings
One in three U.S. Adults now consult artificial intelligence chatbots for health information, a figure that equals the proportion relying on social media for medical guidance, according to a fresh KFF Tracking Poll released Wednesday.
The poll reveals that 32% of adults have turned to AI chatbots in the past year for health-related advice. Of those, 29% sought information about physical health, although 16% used the tools for mental health concerns. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with adults under 30 being three times more likely than those aged 50 and over to utilize AI for mental health information (28% versus 8%).
The increasing reliance on AI for health information coincides with a broader trend of individuals seeking readily available and accessible resources. According to the KFF poll, 65% of those who consulted AI chatbots did so to obtain quick or immediate information. A substantial 41% as well used the tools to research conditions before deciding whether to consult a healthcare provider, and 36% appreciated the privacy offered by these platforms.
Access and affordability are also significant drivers, particularly for younger adults and those with lower incomes. One in five respondents cited healthcare access or affordability issues as major reasons for turning to AI for health questions. Uninsured adults (30%) are more likely than those with insurance (14%) to seek health information from AI chatbots, as are Black and Hispanic adults compared to White adults.
While overall trust in AI tools for health information remains low, those who have used the chatbots express a greater degree of confidence. The poll indicates a disparity between general public skepticism and user experience, with most individuals who have utilized AI for health advice reporting trust in the information provided.
The rise of AI chatbots in healthcare information dissemination is occurring as major technology companies expand their offerings in this space. Microsoft is upgrading its AI assistant to track user health data, following similar moves by Amazon and OpenAI, according to a report from The New York Times earlier this month. This expansion raises questions about data privacy and the reliability of information provided by these tools.
Experts are beginning to address the potential for misinformation and the require for equitable access to reliable health information in the age of AI. A recent article published in Frontiers in Public Health highlights the importance of establishing benchmarking frameworks to ensure AI chatbots contribute to fairness and inclusivity in healthcare information.