The AI Doctor Will See You Now (Sort Of)
Brits are officially adding “AI doctor” to their list of go-to health advisors—right between “Google” and “my mum.” A new study from Confused.com Life Insurance reveals that three in five Brits now use AI to self-diagnose, asking everything from “Why am I coughing like a seal?” to “Is it fatal if I googled it twice?”
With GP appointments averaging a 10-day wait, people are understandably impatient. Searches like “What is my illness?” have skyrocketed by 85% since January 2025—because apparently, waiting is so 2024.
Top AI health searches:
- Checking symptoms (63%)
- Side effects (50%)
- Lifestyle tips (38%)
- And 20% of Brits now treat AI like a therapist—because it’s cheaper and won’t judge your life choices.
The younger crowd (18–24) lead the AI health craze, with 85% turning to bots for answers. Meanwhile, 35% of over-65s are also joining the digital waiting room (once they remember their passwords).
Why the shift?
Because AI is just faster. Nearly half of respondents said self-diagnosis beats the agony of waiting weeks for a doctor. Some even admit they feel more comfortable telling AI their problems than speaking face-to-face—looking at you, 39% of Gen Z.
And money talks too. One in five believe AI consultations save serious private healthcare fees—though we doubt your chatbot will write you a prescription for antibiotics or a “sick day” note for your boss.
Interestingly, AI health tools have shown the most positive impact among non-binary users (75%), suggesting inclusivity that traditional healthcare can sometimes overlook.
But before we all crown ChatGPT “Dr. Bot,” Confused.com’s Tom Vaughan reminds everyone that GPs still matter—especially because only actual doctors can tell you if that rash is deadly or just a bad sunburn.
Meanwhile, OpenAI has officially leaned into the trend with ChatGPT Health, integrating with wellness apps to give tailored advice. It’s not a diagnostic tool (seriously, they’re stressing that), but it can help translate your cryptic lab results without scaring you half to death.
So, as Britain embraces AI for everything from sniffles to existential dread, one thing’s clear: the future of healthcare might just be a chat window away. Just… maybe still keep your GP on speed dial.
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