In the Days of “Dr. Google” and the Rise of AI in Healthcare:
Not too long ago, during the era of “Dr. Google,” some people would search their signs and symptoms online and often arrive at a self-diagnosis based on what they read. For example, someone experiencing a headache might Google its potential causes and come across numerous articles detailing possible explanations. Ideally, they would read material from reputable sources such as the Mayo Clinic or other established healthcare institutions.
The primary risk those days was the potential for misinformation from less credible sources, and the lack of adequate medical knowledge, which could lead to confusion or misdiagnosis. Still, even then, someone was accountable for the content—be it a medical institution, a health care practitioner such as a physiotherapist, or an organization like the Mayo Clinic. There was a clear line of responsibility.
As healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, we are held accountable for the information we publish across various platforms. We are governed by regulatory bodies and ethical standards that ensure we provide safe, appropriate, and evidence-based advice.
However, with the rise of artificial intelligence, this chain of responsibility becomes murky. AI-generated content, while impressive, often lacks a human author or institution to be held accountable for its accuracy. In many cases, AI has been shown to produce misleading or outright incorrect information. This presents a serious concern.
It is crucial that we educate the public to remain cautious and critical of health information generated by AI. While AI can be a helpful tool, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
I recently came across a news article in which someone praised AI over their consultation with a physiotherapist. While that might sound convenient, it overlooks a fundamental truth: physiotherapists have a fiduciary responsibility to their patients. We are regulated by professional colleges to ensure our advice is not only accurate but also tailored to each individual.
There are instances where pain could be a symptom of a more serious, underlying condition—something beyond the scope of physiotherapy. In such cases, we refer patients to the appropriate healthcare professionals. AI, however, lacks the discernment and accountability to make such critical decisions.
We must continue to advocate for responsible use of technology in healthcare, while reinforcing the irreplaceable value of human judgment, empathy, and professional oversight.