New data points to a growing reliance on artificial intelligence for health related information across the world.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT is receiving a high volume of healthcare and medical questions from users globally. According to details shared by the San Francisco based AI company, more than 40 million users have asked the chatbot questions related to healthcare and medical topics. A large share of these queries is coming from underserved rural communities, with health insurance emerging as one of the most common areas of interest. In August 2025, when OpenAI released the GPT 5 model, the company had already stated that improving health related performance was a key priority.
The company shared several usage insights with a publication, highlighting how users interact with ChatGPT for healthcare guidance. The reported 40 million healthcare related messages account for over 5 percent of all ChatGPT messages worldwide. OpenAI also revealed that between 1.6 million and 1.9 million messages every week are focused on health insurance. Most of these questions relate to plan comparison, claims and billing, and coverage details.
The data also shows that nearly 6,00,000 healthcare related questions per week come from users in underserved rural areas. Notably, 7 out of 10 of these conversations take place when clinics are usually closed.
OpenAI further shared findings from a survey conducted in December 2025. The survey covered 1,042 adults in the US and focused on user behaviour. As per the results, 55 percent of respondents said they use ChatGPT to check or explore physical symptoms they are experiencing. Another 48 percent use it to understand medical terms and instructions, while 44 percent rely on the chatbot to learn about treatment options.
The data highlights gaps in access to healthcare information and professionals. While search engines have long been used to find medical information, users often struggle with technical language and search accuracy. At the same time, limited access to doctors in certain regions leads many people to avoid medical visits for minor issues.
OpenAI’s data suggests that AI is helping bridge these gaps by providing accessible and science based information. However, concerns remain. With AI hallucination still a challenge in 2026, the reliability of chatbot generated medical information is a key issue. OpenAI has stated that it is continuously improving healthcare responses, but errors at scale could pose serious risks if misinformation spreads.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
