Oxford University warns of dangers of using AI for medical advice
Researchers found that large language models often gave users inconsistent or inaccurate information.
A major study from the University of Oxford has found that AI chatbots may not be safe for giving medical advice to the public.
Researchers there say large language models can provide mixed or wrong information, making it harder for people to know what to do about their health.
The study suggests that AI should be tested with real users before it’s relied on for medical support.
Dr Rebecca Payne, GP, lead medical practitioner on the study, Clarendon-Reuben Doctoral Scholar, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, and Clinical Senior Lecturer, Bangor University said: “Despite all the hype, AI just isn’t ready to take on the role of the physician.
Patients need to be aware that asking a large language model about their symptoms can be dangerous, giving wrong diagnoses and failing to recognise when urgent help is needed.”