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Evolving Health Information-Seeking Behavior in the Context of Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and Alexa: Interview
Claire Wardle1, Shaydanay Urbani2, Eric Wang2
1Department of Communication, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
Journal of Medical Internet Research
|October 7, 2025
Summary
Users selectively use artificial intelligence (AI) and voice assistants for health information, prioritizing perceived usefulness over just trustworthiness. This dynamic, context-driven approach challenges traditional credibility assumptions in digital health literacy.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Information Science
Background:
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) are transforming online health information seeking.
- Existing models inadequately explain user engagement with AI tools providing single answers.
- Novel AI technologies necessitate understanding shifts in health information-seeking behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore user engagement with AI and voice-assisted technologies for health information.
- To evaluate how these tools reshape traditional health information seeking and credibility assessment.
- To understand user perceptions of AI and voice assistants in health information retrieval.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study with 27 participants (ages 19-80) using a think-aloud protocol.
- Participants searched for health information on Google, ChatGPT, and Alexa.
- Reflexive thematic analysis of transcribed sessions to identify search patterns and perceptions.
Main Results:
- Users integrated AI tools into existing search routines, valuing ChatGPT for clarity and speed.
- Trust and utility were often misaligned; users accessed ChatGPT despite concerns about sourcing and bias.
- Google AI Overviews were approached cautiously; Alexa was seen as convenient but limited for complex queries.
Conclusions:
- Health information seeking is becoming more dynamic and context-driven with AI and voice technologies.
- Perceived usefulness, not solely trustworthiness, drives adoption of AI health tools.
- Digital health literacy must evolve to encompass evaluating AI capabilities and limitations.
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