AI in Healthcare: Innovation vs. Hidden Risks; Doctors Warn Against Misuse

• 2026 sees major tech giants like OpenAI and Google integrating AI into healthcare with tools like ChatGPT Health and MedGamma 1.5.
• An incident in Australia highlighted the dangers of AI medical advice when a man developed bromism after ChatGPT allegedly suggested sodium bromide as a salt substitute.
• Dr. Ishwar Gilada, an infectious disease expert, warns that AI chatbots have limitations and should not replace professional medical diagnoses.
• AI can assist with general queries and interpreting reports, but should prompt users to seek a doctor for complex health issues.
• OpenAI's ChatGPT Health connects with fitness apps, while Google's MedGamma 1.5 enhances medical imaging analysis, but experts stress AI cannot replace clinical judgment.

Why It Matters: AI is rapidly entering healthcare, offering benefits but posing significant risks if misused or relied upon for self-diagnosis.