This week, AI company- Open AI, announced online users can tap into their health and wellness by using Chat GPT Health. The company posted a statement sharing that over 230 million people globally ask health and wellness-related questions on the platform every week, OpenAI emphasized that the tool is designed to support medical care, or to be used as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment.

Dr. Joe Galati says, although a useful tool- it has its limitations. “I say this all the time. We must continue to foster the patient/physician relationship and the communication and use Chat GPT and this new health app strictly as a tool, but not a replacement.” He said.

The answers given could be incorrect and send you down the wrong road- putting users at risk.

“Do not think that Chat GPT is going to be 100 percent or even 90 percent correct. If you want to read up, get information, and then talk with your physician about what you found- that would be the way to go.” Dr. Galati said.

The health platform offers the ability to securely connect medical records and works in collaboration with other wellness apps such as Apple Health Function and My Fitness Pal, and Peloton. Users can get tailored information on lab tests, nutrition, meal ideas and suggested workout classes.

The new feature is rolling out for users with ChatGPT Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans outside of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the U.K.

Monitoring the AI platform usage by minors could be a concern, as Open AI is facing a lawsuit following the drug overdose of a 19-year-old who followed the medical advice of Chat GPT.

In addition, adults looking for “quick” or “cost-efficient” medical advice could also be putting their wellness at risk unless they use a commonsense approach. “It would be good if the app has a hard stop and says” You need to call your doctor now.” Even, saying “I don’t know the answer to that”, would suffice, because you don’t know who could react, especially- a minor, in a dangerous way. Dr. Galati emphasizes the doctor/patient relationship, and says, Chat GPT Health is a useful tool, just needs to be viewed as an assistant and not a medical professional.

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