AI & Health: 32% Use Chatbots for Medical Advice | KFF Poll Findings

A modern analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) reveals a significant shift in how Americans seek health information, with roughly a third (32%) now turning to artificial intelligence chatbots for advice in the past year. This figure rivals the leverage of social media as a health resource, though it remains less common than consulting healthcare providers or conducting traditional internet searches – where, notably, users may encounter AI-generated results without actively seeking them out. The KFF March 2026 Tracking Poll on Health Information and Trust highlights a growing trend of digital health engagement, raising questions about trust, access and the evolving role of technology in healthcare.

Who is Engaging with AI for Health?

The KFF poll indicates that AI chatbot use isn’t uniform across all demographics. Younger adults are significantly more likely to utilize these tools for both physical and mental health inquiries. Specifically, the data shows that among those seeking mental health advice, uninsured adults, as well as Black and Hispanic adults, demonstrate a higher propensity to turn to AI compared to their insured and White counterparts. This disparity suggests that AI tools may be filling a gap for populations facing barriers to traditional healthcare access.

The reasons behind this turn to AI are varied. The most frequently cited motivation is the desire for quick or immediate support. Many users also report using AI to gather information before consulting a healthcare provider, or to benefit from the privacy it offers when discussing sensitive health concerns. A noteworthy 20% of respondents cited healthcare access or affordability as key drivers for using AI, a figure that rises among younger adults and those with lower household incomes. This suggests that, for some, AI chatbots represent a pragmatic solution to systemic challenges within the healthcare system.

What are People Asking AI About?

The KFF data breaks down the specific ways people are utilizing AI for health information. The most common application is looking up symptoms or obtaining general information about health conditions. While many are using AI for preliminary research, fewer are relying on it to craft critical decisions about seeking medical care, whether for physical or mental health concerns. This suggests that, at present, AI is often used as a starting point for information gathering, rather than a replacement for professional medical advice.

Trust and the Emerging Landscape of AI in Healthcare

Interestingly, overall public trust in AI tools for health information remains relatively low. Yet, among those who have used AI for health-related purposes, trust levels are considerably higher. This suggests that direct experience with these tools can foster a greater sense of confidence in their reliability. The survey data reveals a nuanced perspective: while the general public may harbor skepticism, users who have actively engaged with AI chatbots often find them to be trustworthy sources of information.

This growing reliance on AI for health information coincides with a broader trend of increasing AI integration into the healthcare sector. Recent reports indicate a 16% increase in AI chatbot use for health information from 2024 to 2025, with 32% of respondents in a Rock Health survey reporting usage in 2025. Fierce Healthcare notes that ChatGPT and Gemini are currently the most popular platforms for health-related queries, with users frequently searching for treatment options and pre-diagnosis information.

Navigating the Risks and Considerations

The increasing use of AI in healthcare isn’t without its concerns. A recent New York Times article highlights the potential risks associated with sharing personal health records with AI platforms, emphasizing the necessitate for caution and data privacy awareness. While AI can offer convenient access to information, it’s crucial to remember that these tools are not substitutes for qualified medical professionals.

It’s important to understand the limitations of AI-generated health information. Chatbots rely on algorithms and data sets, which may contain biases or inaccuracies. They cannot provide personalized medical advice, diagnose conditions, or prescribe treatments. The KFF poll doesn’t delve into the accuracy of the information provided by these chatbots, but it does underscore the importance of critical evaluation and verification.

What’s Next for AI and Health Information?

The integration of AI into healthcare is an ongoing process. Several key developments are likely to shape the future of this landscape. Microsoft and OpenAI have recently launched healthcare-specific chatbot offerings, such as Copilot Health and ChatGPT Health, signaling a growing investment in this area. Further research is needed to assess the long-term impact of AI on patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and the doctor-patient relationship.

Regulatory bodies will likely play a crucial role in establishing guidelines and standards for the use of AI in healthcare, focusing on data privacy, accuracy, and transparency. Ongoing monitoring of AI chatbot performance and user feedback will be essential to identify and address potential risks. The goal is to harness the potential of AI to improve healthcare access and quality, while safeguarding patient safety and trust.