healthdirect is a government-funded health service that provides free access to health advice and information

5 questions to help you safely use AI for health information

Explore possible causes

Question: I have these symptoms: [description]. What are some possible reasons and information that would help me understand my symptoms?

Understand the information

Question: Explain this in simple language: [medical term, diagnosis, test result or health information].

Add relevant information

Question: I’m a [age] year old [gender], what should I know about [condition or symptom]?

Know your options

Question: What treatment options are commonly used for [condition]? What are the benefits, risks and possible side effects?

Prepare for your appointment

Question: What questions should I ask my doctor to better understand this situation?

Use AI for general health information

• AI can’t diagnose a health condition
• AI can’t tell how serious your symptoms are
• AI doesn’t know your health history
• AI can make mistakes or give outdated information

Protect your privacy

• Don’t share personal information such as:
  • Your home address
  • Your Medicare number
  • You full medical history
• Check the tool’s privacy policy to understand how it collects, stores and uses your information

Do not rely on AI for:

• Medical emergencies
• Diagnosis
• Treatment decisions
• Replacing advice from a doctor or healthcare professional

Feeling unwell or unsure what to do?

Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. Speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free health advice.

If you have severe symptoms, chest pain, difficulty breathing or it is a medical emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately