Ask a Doctor: Why go to the doc when you could use a chatbot?

These days people are using AI chatbots for everything.  These chatbots have a wealth of information at their metaphorical fingertips. But the accuracy of the information that they offer us is, well, questionable. But it makes sense why some people turn to AI for medical advice. They’re usually free, which gives them an upper hand when healthcare in the United States is so expensive.  They’re also easy to access, so people can get their questions answered immediately, instead of waiting for an opening at their doctor’s office.  And they’re trained to be empathic, which is especially appealing to patients who don’t feel valued in medical settings.  In this "Ask a Doctor" segment, we explore the world of health advice and chatbots with two medical professionals.  Guests:  Angad Singh is a family medicine physician. He's also an Associate Chief Clinical Information Officer and Clinical Associate Professor at UW Medicine. Danielle Bitterman is an assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Clinical Lead for Data Science and AI at Mass General Brigham. Related links: A.I. Chatbots Are Changing How Patients Get Medical Advice - The New York Times How to Use ChatGPT for Health Advice | Right as Rain Health Advice From A.I. Chatbots Is Frequently Wrong, Study Shows - The New York Times Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.