Parents Now Trust ChatGPT More Than Doctors, Study Finds

Paging Dr. Bot.

A recent study from the University of Kansas’ Life Span Institute reveals a surprising trend: many parents place more trust in AI tools like ChatGPT than in healthcare professionals.

“Participants noticed very few differences between expert-written and AI-generated content,” explained lead researcher Calissa Leslie-Miller, a PhD student in clinical child psychology. “In fact, when differences were statistically significant, ChatGPT’s responses were seen as more accurate, dependable, and trustworthy.”

The study involved 116 parents aged 18 to 65, who were given pediatric health scenarios and asked to judge whether the advice came from a medical expert or from ChatGPT — without knowing the source. Most participants found ChatGPT’s responses more appealing.

So, why do parents lean toward AI?

Experts suggest that ChatGPT’s clear, concise language may make information easier to understand. Dr. Mordechai Raskas, a telemedicine director, even called AI “the ultimate salesperson” for its persuasive communication style.

Many parents also prefer the immediacy of AI responses over the often slow process of booking and waiting for a doctor’s appointment.

But this preference comes with real risks.

“AI might suggest unsafe treatments, such as medications for children who are too young, or miss key symptoms entirely,” warned Leslie-Miller.

Jim Boswell, CEO of OnPoint Healthcare Partners, emphasizes that AI lacks personalization. While ChatGPT pulls from a wide range of online sources, it doesn’t offer medical insights tailored to a specific patient.

Health experts urge caution. Relying solely on AI could lead to delayed diagnoses, misinterpretation of serious conditions, or incorrect treatments, especially for children, whose symptoms can worsen quickly.

To stay informed, Leslie-Miller recommends using trusted sources like:

• The American Academy of Pediatrics

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

• The World Health Organization (WHO)

“Online research can be valuable,” added Dr. Raskas, “but it should be paired with guidance from a qualified medical professional to avoid dangerous misunderstandings.”