ChatGPT is used by 40 million Americans for medical advice, experts warn

OpenAI reports about 40 million Americans ask ChatGPT health questions each day, and the company faces lawsuits alleging harm after some users received harmful responses.

OpenAI published a report saying roughly 40 million Americans use ChatGPT daily to ask about symptoms, treatments and insurance. The company found many health queries come from rural areas and outside normal clinic hours. Several medical professionals told press that AI can make medical language easier to understand but is not a substitute for clinical care. OpenAI is also facing lawsuits connected to instances in which users reported being harmed after using the service. Key points: - Scale of use: The report states about 40 million U.S. users ask ChatGPT health questions every day, with one in four Americans using it weekly and one in 20 global messages related to health. - Access and timing: The report notes many health queries come from rural "hospital desert" areas and that roughly seven in 10 health-related chats occur outside typical clinic hours. - Professional and legal context: Two in three U.S. doctors and about half of nurses have used AI at least once; OpenAI is facing multiple lawsuits alleging harm after some users sought medical or self-harm guidance. Summary: The report highlights widespread public reliance on ChatGPT for medical information and shows patterns tied to access and timing of care. Medical professionals cited in coverage say AI can aid understanding but should not replace clinical judgment. Legal actions alleging harm are underway, and the next legal or regulatory steps are undetermined at this time.