Google’s recent introduction of an A.I.-powered feature, A.I. Overviews, designed to generate conversational responses to health-related queries, has sparked debate among experts over its reliability and potential risks.
The technology, utilizing generative A.I., draws from a vast array of internet data to provide rapid answers to questions ranging from distinguishing between a headache and a sinus infection to assessing the severity of chest pain. However, since its launch in May, users have encountered a multitude of inaccuracies and peculiar responses, prompting Google to reportedly scale back the feature for certain searches in response to the errors.
In the realm of health, the stakes are particularly high, as the technology holds the power to influence individuals’ health-related decisions. While it has the potential to steer users towards beneficial health practices or necessary medical attention, there are concerns that it may also propagate misinformation or offer advice that contradicts medical guidelines, potentially endangering users’ well-being.
Instances of erroneous responses have already been noted, with some queries yielding misleading information sourced from unreliable or satirical sources. Dr. Karandeep Singh, chief health A.I. officer at UC San Diego Health, emphasized the critical importance of discerning the credibility of information sources, particularly in matters of health.
Google’s senior director of product management, Hema Budaraju, acknowledged that health searches are subject to additional safeguards, although specifics were not disclosed. Searches deemed hazardous or sensitive, such as those related to self-harm, reportedly do not trigger A.I. summaries.
While Google highlighted reputable sources like the Mayo Clinic, WebMD, and the World Health Organization as contributors to the information provided by A.I. Overviews, the tool also draws from a variety of sources, including Wikipedia, blogs, and e-commerce websites. However, users are not informed which sources contribute to individual responses, raising questions about transparency and reliability.
As Google continues to refine its A.I.-powered search capabilities, the debate surrounding the use of such technology in addressing health queries underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and vigilance in ensuring the dissemination of accurate and reliable information to users.
Related topics:
- How to Treat a Cold in a Newborn: A Comprehensive Guide
- What to Do When You Are Extremely Sad？
- Understanding SIDS: Myths, Facts & Prevention Strategies
