The latest Annenberg Public Policy Center survey reveals that a majority of Americans find AI-generated health information reliable. However, many express concerns about the use of AI tools by health care providers in clinical decisions.
In an evolving landscape where health inquiries increasingly populate search engines, Americans are turning to AI-generated information. Despite potential pitfalls, a new survey unveils that a substantial number of U.S. adults find this information reliable and useful.
The Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) at the University of Pennsylvania conducted the survey in April 2025, including responses from over 1,600 adults. The findings suggest that reliance on and trust in AI for health information are growing, albeit with notable reservations.
Highlights from the survey include:
- Nearly 8 in 10 adults (79%) are likely to search online for answers to health-related questions.
- Of those searching online, 75% encounter AI-generated responses, with 31% finding these responses often or always helpful and 45% finding them sometimes helpful.
- Most Americans (63%) perceive AI-generated health information as somewhat (55%) or very (8%) reliable.
- Nearly half (49%) are uncomfortable with health care providers using AI tools instead of relying solely on their own expertise.
Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, underscored the importance of discerning AI responses.
“Despite the disclaimers that accompany some AI-generated summaries, there is potential for confusion and even harm among vulnerable individuals if they are not aware that these responses are not a substitute for the personalized expert health guidance that their health care provider can offer,” she said in a news release.
Laura A. Gibson, an APPC research analyst, emphasized the limitations of AI platforms.
“AI platforms are not necessarily updated in real time and may contain outdated information. Skepticism is warranted,” she added.
Diverse Health Information Sources
The survey also uncovered the range of sources people trust for health information:
- 71% use search engines like Google or Bing.
- 48% turn to online health websites such as WebMD or Healthline.
- 44% seek information from medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic or the Cleveland Clinic.
- 37% consult nonprofit organizations dedicated to specific health issues.
- 35% utilize federal government resources like the CDC, NIH and FDA.
Social media platforms, state or local government sites, and podcasts are less frequently used sources.
Generational Differences
The survey highlighted significant age-related disparities in exposure to AI-generated health responses.
Only 49% of those aged 65 and older have seen such responses, compared to higher percentages in younger age groups. This suggests that younger adults are more likely to encounter and potentially trust AI-generated health information.
AI and Doctor-Patient Dynamics
Despite the reliance on AI, the survey indicates hesitation about integrating AI into clinical decisions.
Although 41% of respondents believe that health care providers sometimes or often utilize AI tools, nearly half (49%) are uncomfortable with this practice. The reluctance underscores a trust gap that could shape future health care policies.
Interestingly, while few patients frequently discuss online health information with their doctors, a substantial majority (80%) affirm that their providers are adept at explaining health issues. However, they remain mixed on whether doctors have the time or inclination to discuss online findings.
Smart Devices and Health Tracking
A remarkable 93% of respondents own a smartphone or smartwatch, with 59% using health-related apps.
There is a generational gap here as well, with younger adults more likely to utilize these apps compared to seniors.
The integration of technology in personal health management reflects a broader trend towards digital health tools. Most respondents are comfortable receiving prescription alerts from pharmacies, highlighting a general acceptance of digital health convenience.
Source: Annenberg Public Policy Center, University of Pennsylvania