Google, ChatGPT, and others as a new source of a second opinion
Between Digital Information and Medical Responsibility
More and more people are turning to the internet for information before or after a dental appointment. Search engines and AI systems like ChatGPT provide quick answers. But how reliable is this information, and what are its limitations?
Find out here what role Google and AI systems like ChatGPT can play in medical matters—and where caution is advised.
Why We Look for Medical Information Online
Health is a sensitive topic. Many people want to better understand their diagnoses or compare treatment options at home in the comfort of their own space. According to international
surveys, a significant proportion of adults regularly research health-related questions online at
. The desire for transparency and a say in decision-making is
understandable and fundamentally positive.
The Limits of Search Engines
Search engines rank content based on relevance and popularity, not on medical
quality. As a result, reputable expert information appears alongside simplified blogs or
posts written for commercial purposes. Studies show significant differences in accuracy,
evidence-based content, and clarity. Without expert guidance, this can lead to
misjudgments.
Risks of AI as an Information Tool
Language models are capable of organizing complex topics in an understandable way and providing clear answers to frequently asked questions. However, studies show that while AI responses are coherently formulated, they occasionally contain errors or incomplete information. This is particularly true for individual medical findings, where the crucial clinical context is often missing.
Digital information is no substitute for a diagnosis
A second opinion in the medical sense is based on examinations, test results, and an individual’s medical history (
). Neither Google nor AI systems have access to this data. They provide general knowledge (
), but do not offer a personalized risk assessment. Medical responsibility (
) therefore remains irreplaceable.
Have you found information online that makes you feel uncertain or raises questions?
