ChatGPT Health likely to be regulated as 'medical device' in the UK

Robert Way/Getty Images

By Daniel Pye

ChatGPT Health, which has been launched in the US, is not currently available in Europe due to extra regulatory hurdles.

The artificial intelligence app, which offers health advice based on patient records, will not be accessible in the UK and EU until additional compliance measures are worked through, confirmed OpenAI, which owns the software.

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has confirmed to Doctors.net.uk that the platform, launched in the States on 7 January, would likely be considered a medical device subject to strict UK laws.

ChatGPT Health offers its users the ability to connect their medical records and wellness apps to the AI model, which it then uses to generate responses that are informed by the health information.

According to OpenAI’s figures, over 230 million people globally ask health and wellness related questions in the standard ChatGPT app every week.

“ChatGPT can help you understand recent test results, prepare for appointments with your doctor [and] get advice on how to approach your diet and workout routine,” OpenAI claims on its website.