Public trust in AI in health care is slipping, survey finds

April 7, 2026 - 16:38

A new national survey reveals a growing public wariness toward the use of artificial intelligence in health care, even as the technology becomes more integrated into medical settings. The findings indicate that while many Americans interact with AI in daily life, they remain deeply cautious about its role in personal medical decisions.

The survey highlights a significant trust gap. A strong majority of respondents stated they would be uncomfortable with their doctor relying on AI for a diagnosis. Furthermore, most would reject a diagnosis from an AI tool if it contradicted their human physician's assessment. Concerns primarily center on the potential for errors, data privacy, and a perceived lack of the human touch and empathy that is central to the caregiver-patient relationship.

This skepticism persists despite the expanding presence of AI in administrative tasks and some diagnostic support within hospitals. Experts note that the rapid pace of technological advancement has outstripped public understanding and comfort. They emphasize that for AI to reach its potential in improving health outcomes, building transparency and demonstrating clear, reliable benefits to patients will be as crucial as the technology itself. The current sentiment suggests a pressing need for greater education and ethical safeguards to bridge this divide.