Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT have become incredibly popular for seeking medical information. They can provide responses that feel empathetic, insightful, and even accurate—but Ontario physicians are sounding the alarm: AI is not a substitute for your family doctor.
At a recent media briefing hosted by the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), leading doctors across specialties warned about the growing trend of patients turning to AI for medical advice. While chatbots may offer quick answers, they often miss critical nuances or provide inaccurate, even dangerous, information.

“I have patients now who talk to ChatGPT about their symptoms before they speak with me,” said Dr. Valerie Primeau, a North Bay psychiatrist who leads mental health and addictions programs. “If we don’t help people navigate this, they will struggle.”

AI Can Sound Right—Even When It’s Not

Chatbots are designed to generate the most likely response to a prompt—not necessarily the most correct one. This “pattern matching” approach lacks the ability to consider rare diagnoses, emotional context, or evolving medical evidence.

What Patients Should Know

• Always check AI-generated answers against reputable Canadian medical organizations (like Cancer Care Ontario, Health Canada, or your local hospital).
• If a post says “doctors don’t want you to know this,” be skeptical.
• Fake ads and AI-generated images are becoming more convincing—and more misleading.

Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, OMA President and a clinical immunologist, urges patients to consult real medical sources, not viral posts.

Even Experts Are Cautious About AI Use

Research led by Dr. Benjamin Chin-Yee at Western University found that 75% of AI summaries of medical literature missed key qualifiers, sometimes leaving out critical details like which patients a drug is actually effective for.
Similarly, a University of Toronto study comparing chatbot answers to real oncologist responses found the AI responses appeared competent—but without medical oversight, they can easily lead to wrong conclusions.

Use AI as a Tool—Not a Diagnosis

At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we understand the desire for fast answers—but we also know that safe, effective care depends on real human understanding. If you’re unsure about something you’ve read or been told by a chatbot, bring it to your doctor.

Let us help interpret your health concerns with context, compassion, and clinical judgment—something no algorithm can replicate.

Final Advice from the Experts

Dr. Eric Topol, renowned cardiologist and AI researcher, summed it up best:
“Chatbots haven’t been systematically assessed for public use. Always verify answers, ask for real citations, and—most importantly—consult your healthcare provider.”
Your health is too important to leave to algorithms.

Talk to us first. We’re here to guide you—personally, professionally, and with care.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.