How to use AI more safely and effectively

If you still want to use AI to learn about a health topic, here are practical steps to reduce risk:

• Use AI for general education, not diagnosis. AI is best suited for explaining medical terms or giving general wellness advice. For example, you might ask, "What does hypertension mean in plain language?" or "How can I add more movement into my day?"
• Cross-check everything. Verify information with trusted sources, like websites for Mayo Clinic or the American Medical Association. Most importantly, review what you learn with your healthcare team.
• Ask clear, specific questions. Instead of asking, "Is coughing a bad sign?" try, "What are common causes of chronic dry cough in adults?" Clear, focused questions tend to produce more useful and balanced answers. Remember: Healthcare professionals are trained to ask the right follow-up questions. AI isn't.
• Protect your privacy. Don't share personal information, like your full name, date of birth, address, medical records or insurance details. Even health details should be shared cautiously, especially on public or free platforms.