What happened
OpenAI launched ChatGPT Health in January 2026, a chatbot version designed to interpret test results, analyse health trends, and prepare for doctor’s visits. Anthropic also introduced similar health features for some users of Claude. Both companies state these AI models are not for diagnosis or treatment, with ChatGPT Health currently on a waitlist. Experts note that while AI can incorporate context from past interactions for more personalised feedback, it does not have direct access to medical records.
Why it matters
Healthcare providers and patients gain new tools for understanding complex medical information, but must navigate clear limitations. While these AI models offer more tailored answers than traditional search engines by incorporating user context, they explicitly do not diagnose or prescribe. This shifts the burden onto medical professionals to integrate AI-generated patient insights while maintaining diagnostic authority.
