Evolving Health Information-Seeking Behavior in the Context of AI-Powered Technologies

Strategic Insights -

A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research has explored how people use and perceive artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technologies, such as voice assistants and large language models, when searching for health information. According to the research, users integrate these tools into their broader search routines rather than using them in isolation, and their trust and utility do not always align. The study found that users value the clarity, speed, and ability of ChatGPT to generate keywords or summarize complex topics, but also express concerns about its accuracy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Users engage with AI- and voice-assisted technologies, such as ChatGPT and Google AI Overviews, in their health information-seeking behavior, often valuing their clarity, speed, and ability to generate keywords or summarize complex topics.
  • The trust and utility of AI-powered tools do not always align, with users often using them despite concerns about sourcing and bias.
  • Users exhibited sophisticated "mix-and-match" behaviors, drawing on multiple tools depending on context, urgency, and familiarity.
  • The study highlights the need for digital health literacy efforts that help users evaluate both the capabilities and limitations of emerging tools.
  • The research suggests that longitudinal studies and real-time observation methods are essential for understanding how AI continues to reshape health information seeking.

Statistics:

  • 27 participants (ages 19-80 years) were involved in the in-depth qualitative research study using a think-aloud protocol.
  • One-third of participants were multilingual and identified challenges with voice recognition, cultural relevance, and data provenance.
  • Participants selectively engaged with AI- and voice-assisted tools based on perceived usefulness, not just trustworthiness.

Sources:

  • Evolving Health Information-Seeking Behavior in the Context of Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and Alexa: Interview Study Using the Think-Aloud Protocol Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2025; 27
  • Brown University, School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
  • Jmir Publications, Inc, 130 Queens Quay East, Unit 1100, Toronto, On M5A 0P6, Canada
  • NewsRx, LLC, 2025