Online Health Information and AI Summaries — What to Trust and What to Question
Why this topic matters
Online health information now shapes everyday decisions about food, exercise, supplements, screening, and medical care. It also influences expectations about what medicine can and cannot do. When information is accurate and balanced, it supports informed conversations with your GP. When it is misleading or incomplete, it can increase anxiety, confusion, and mistrust. AI-generated summaries add another layer, because they often sound confident and authoritative even when the underlying information is weak.
Start with the source
Reliable health information clearly states who wrote it, their role or qualifications, and who funds or runs the site. Trustworthy pages separate evidence from opinion and avoid sales-driven language. Australian sources such as government health departments and national health information services usually reflect local standards of care. If you cannot quickly identify the author, organisation, and purpose of the content, treat its claims cautiously.
Look for balance and evidence
Good health writing uses measured language, explains uncertainty, and avoids dramatic promises. It refers to evidence in plain terms rather than relying on testimonials or “miracle” stories. Be wary of content that claims guaranteed results, presents one approach as the only solution, or reduces complex health issues to simple fixes. Balanced information also discusses limitations, risks, and situations where advice may differ between people.
Check currency and personal context
Medical guidance evolves as research and Australian recommendations change. Look for a recent review date and clear updating practices. Also consider whether the information applies to you — including your age, pregnancy status, long-term conditions, medicines, and personal circumstances. Even high-quality general information cannot replace individual medical assessment.
Use AI-generated summaries with care
AI tools summarise patterns in text — not truth. They can miss nuance, misunderstand medical language, merge details from different sources, or generate information that sounds plausible but is incorrect. Treat AI summaries as starting points for questions, not final answers. Always check key claims against reputable Australian health websites or the original sources being referenced.
Bring online information to your GP
If something you read online leaves you uncertain or worried, bring it to your GP appointment. Your GP can help interpret the information in the context of your personal health, explain which sources align with Australian practice, and clarify what is relevant for you now. This shared approach supports safer decisions and reduces the risk of misinformation shaping your care.
Online tools can support health understanding — but they work best when combined with professional guidance, critical thinking, and personalised medical care.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.