Poll Reveals Millions of Americans Consult AI Before, After—And Sometimes Instead Of—Seeing a Doctor

Why It Matters

The data shows AI is reshaping patient‑provider interactions, creating both opportunities for more informed care and risks of mis‑diagnosis or delayed treatment, prompting health systems to develop guidance and oversight.

Key Takeaways

• 66 million U.S. adults used health‑focused AI in past 30 days
• 57% use AI to supplement, not replace, doctor visits
• 14 million skipped a provider after AI advice
• Trust split: 33% trust, 34% distrust, 4% strongly trust
• Low‑income adults 32% use AI to avoid paying for care

Pulse Analysis

The West Health‑Gallup poll underscores a rapid shift in how Americans gather medical information. With 71 % of recent AI users citing speed and curiosity as primary drivers, AI chatbots have become a go‑to resource for everyday health queries—from symptom checks to nutrition advice. This trend is especially pronounced among younger adults, 69 % of whom research health issues with AI before a doctor visit, signaling a generational move toward digital self‑service.

While AI’s convenience is evident, the findings raise critical concerns for providers and policymakers. Approximately 14 million adults reported forgoing a medical appointment after receiving AI advice, often because of cost, time constraints, or perceived dismissal by clinicians. The split in trust—one‑third each trusting, neutral, or distrusting AI—combined with only 4 % expressing strong confidence, suggests a fragile foundation that could lead to unsafe self‑treatment. Health systems must therefore integrate AI literacy into patient education and establish clear guidelines to mitigate misinformation.

The poll also highlights socioeconomic disparities in AI adoption. Adults earning under $24,000 are 16 times more likely than high earners to use AI as a cost‑saving alternative, reflecting broader access gaps in the U.S. healthcare system. As insurers and tech firms expand AI‑driven health platforms, regulators will need to balance innovation with safeguards, ensuring that AI augments clinical care without compromising safety or equity.