United Kingdom, May 14 -- One in seven people in the UK are now using AI chatbots instead of visiting a GP for medical advice, according to new research highlighting growing concerns over the technology's role in healthcare.

The study, conducted by researchers at King's College London, surveyed more than 2,000 people and found that 15 per cent had sought health advice from artificial intelligence tools.

Of those using chatbots, one in four said they had turned to AI because of long NHS waiting times.

Researchers warned that the findings suggest an "unregulated AI healthcare system" is emerging alongside the NHS, with some people relying on chatbots instead of qualified medical professionals.

The study also revealed potential risks lin...