Belarusians ditch doctors for AI medical advice—but at what cost?

More people in Belarus are turning to artificial intelligence for medical advice instead of consulting doctors. The trend reflects a global shift, with patients favouring AI tools for their speed, anonymity, and lack of cost. But experts warn that relying on generic AI recommendations can lead to serious risks. Iryna Lisohurskaya, head of the psychological department at Gomel Regional Clinical Psychiatric Hospital, has observed a growing problem. Patients now arrive with AI-generated diagnoses and treatment plans, often insisting doctors follow them. In one case, a man refused his prescribed medication, claiming an AI tool knew better. Another incident involved a patient's wife demanding AI-recommended treatment for her husband in intensive care.

The appeal of AI is clear. Unlike overbooked specialists, digital assistants respond instantly, require no payment, and keep inquiries private. Many Belarusians now consult services like 'Dr. Google', 'Nurse Yandex', or 'Intern GPT' before—or instead of—seeing a professional. Yet Lisohurskaya stresses that AI cannot account for personal factors such as age, medical history, or existing conditions. No official studies track how many Belarusians use AI for medical advice. Available data offers no concrete figures on the scale of the practice.

While AI tools provide quick answers, their generic advice may do more harm than good. Doctors in Belarus already face challenges with fully booked appointments, and the rise of AI consultations adds another layer of complexity. Patients who override professional recommendations risk worsening their health outcomes.