Can AI Chatbots Provide Reliable Medical Information?
AI chatbots such as ChatGPT-4 and Gemini have become increasingly popular, with many people using them for quick answers and information. Can these AI tools be trusted for medical advice?
Recent research presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting suggests that while AI chatbots show promise in simplifying complex information, they still struggle with accuracy when discussing intricate medical treatments.
Researchers evaluated ChatGPT-4 and Gemini by posing 12 common patient questions about Pluvicto, a lutetium-177 (Lu-177) prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-617 therapy used to treat prostate cancer.
While the chatbots provided easy-to-understand answers, they often fell short in terms of accuracy.
“They seemed to grapple with pre- and post-therapy instructions, as well as detailing common side effects,” explained Dr. Gokce Belge Bilgin, presenter of the study and a physician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. for instance, both chatbots incorrectly stated that allergic reactions were the most common side effect, which isn’t consistent with clinical observations.
The Promise and Peril of AI in Healthcare
The accessibility of AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini is undeniable. Their ability to engage in almost human-like conversations and provide instant, concise responses has changed how people seek information, including medical information.
However, their performance on complex topics remained a concern. Dr. Bilgin’s research highlights the limitations of current AI technology when applied to nuanced medical topics
During the Lucy study, ChatGPT-4 scores better in accuracy (2.95 versus 2.73 on a 4-point scale). In contrast, Gemini produced easier-to-understand responses according to (2.79 vs. 2.94 on a 3-point scale), and received comparable scores to ChatGPT-4
Although both chatbot models were comparable in conciseness, with scores of 3.14 and 3.11 (out of 4), respectively. Worryingly, experts flagged 17
percent of ChatGPT-4’s answers as incorrect or only partially correct. This figure was significantly higher for Gemini at 29 percent. These findings underscore the potential risks associated with relying solely on AI chatbots for medical information. “While AI chatbots have immense potential to assist in demystifying complex medical treatments for patients, it’s crucial to remember that they are still under development,” Dr. Bilgin cautions. “Their inaccuracies and potential to spread misinformation pose significant challenges.”
She wilded that patients may misinterpret the information provided by these chatbots, leading to poorly informed decisions and unnecessary anxiety.
Dr. Bilgin emphasizes the need for ongoing research and development to improve the accuracy, safety, and trustworthiness of AI chatbots.
Ethical considerations, like patient data privacy and legal responsibilities, also need careful consideration as AI’s role in healthcare expands.
“It is vital to approach AI technology in healthcare with both cautious optimism and a commitment to ongoing assessment and refinement,” Dr. Bilgin concludes. ” By acknowledging both the potential benefits and the inherent risks, we can ensure that AI truly empowers patience rather than leading them astray.”
What are the potential dangers of relying on AI chatbots for medical advice?
## Can AI Chatbots Actually Give Us Reliable Medical Advice?
**[Intro Music]**
**Host:** Welcome back to “Health Watch.” Today we’re diving into a fascinating – and slightly unnerving – topic: the rise of AI chatbots and their potential role in healthcare. Joining us is Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading expert in digital health and AI ethics. Welcome, Dr. Jones!
**Dr. Jones:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** We’ve all heard about ChatGPT and other AI models becoming adept at answering questions and even holding conversations. Many people are now turning to these chatbots for medical advice, but how reliable are they truly?
**Dr. Jones:** That’s a very important question. While these chatbots can be great for simplifying complex information and offering general knowledge, they are not a substitute for a doctor.
**Host:** Recent research from the RSNA presented some concerning findings, didn’t it?
**Dr. Jones:** Exactly. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic tested ChatGPT-4 and Gemini on questions about a specific prostate cancer treatment called Pluvicto. While the chatbots presented information in a clear and understandable way, they often got the details wrong, particularly regarding side effects and post-treatment instructions.
**Host:** So, they were good at sounding knowledgeable but not necessarily accurate?
**Dr. Jones:** Precisely. This highlights the danger of relying solely on AI for medical information. These models are trained on massive amounts of data, but they can still make mistakes, especially when dealing with complex medical procedures.
**Host:** So what’s the takeaway for our listeners? Should we avoid using AI chatbots for health-related queries altogether?
**Dr. Jones:** Not necessarily. AI can be a valuable tool for learning about general health topics or finding reputable sources of information. However, it’s crucial to remember that they are not a replacement for qualified medical professionals. Always consult with your doctor for any health concerns, diagnosis, or treatment decisions.
**Host:** Excellent advice, Dr. Jones. Thank you for shedding light on this complex issue.
**[Outro Music]**
