A recent study by the University of Kansas Life Span Institute reveals that parents increasingly trust AI, particularly ChatGPT, over human doctors for medical advice on their children’s health. This research, published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology, surveyed over 100 parents who evaluated health-related text from both human doctors and ChatGPT. The findings showed that AI responses rated higher in trustworthiness and accuracy, leading participants to feel more inclined to rely on the AI-generated information.

The lead researcher, Calissa Leslie-Miller, expressed concern that parents’ reliance on AI may grow without sufficient expert oversight, particularly in high-stakes areas like children's health. The study highlights the lack of perceived difference in expertise, morality, or trustworthiness between ChatGPT and healthcare professionals, although ChatGPT often scored better in accuracy and credibility.

Dr. Harvey Castro, an ER physician and AI expert, commented on the study, emphasizing that while AI offers convenience and immediate information, it cannot replace the insights of a trained pediatrician who can consider a child's unique health history and subtle symptoms. He advocates a balanced approach, combining AI’s efficiency with human expertise for safer, more personalized care.

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