In the evolving landscape of healthcare technology, the advent of AI-driven chatbots is reshaping how individuals seek medical information. Traditionally, those experiencing new symptoms turned to online searches, a phenomenon often criticized as consulting “Dr. Google.” However, advancements in large language models (LLMs), particularly OpenAI’s recent launch of ChatGPT Health, are changing the game. With millions of users turning to ChatGPT for health-related inquiries weekly, questions arise regarding the reliability and safety of AI in addressing medical concerns. The challenge lies in mitigating the inherent risks associated with AI-driven health advice while maximizing its potential benefits for users.
On another front, the United States is grappling with the complexities of AI regulation. Following failed attempts by Congress to create cohesive laws governing artificial intelligence, former President Trump intervened by signing an executive order aimed at preventing individual states from enacting their own regulations. This move seeks to establish a unified, minimally restrictive national policy, providing a reprieve for tech companies who argue that a fragmented regulatory landscape would hinder innovation. As the debate heats up, the battleground is expected to shift towards the judicial system, with some states poised to push forward with their own regulations, despite the federal pushback. As the tech industry navigates these turbulent waters, the implications for regulation and innovation will be closely monitored.
Source: The Download: chatbots for health, and US fights over AI regulation via MIT Technology Review