When the man returned to the hospital, his erectile dysfunction had significantly worsened, requiring more extensive and costly treatment. Doctor Ha Ngoc Manh, Deputy Director of Viet - Bi Hospital for Andrology and Infertility, who treated the patient, explained that corneal complications are extremely rare in cases of erectile dysfunction. He emphasized that the original prescription was carefully tailored to the patient's specific condition. When taken as directed and under medical supervision, the medication is safe and effective. However, instead of consulting his doctor, the patient stopped the medication, exacerbating his condition.
This isn't an isolated incident. A 28-year-old IT worker experienced persistent stomach pain and bloating after meals. Instead of seeking medical attention, he consulted ChatGPT, which suggested various causes, including stress and eating too quickly.
Believing his symptoms were stress-related, he took digestive enzymes. Weeks later, the pain intensified, accompanied by vomiting blood. At the hospital, he was diagnosed with advanced peptic ulcer disease with bleeding complications. The doctor stated that earlier intervention would have simplified treatment considerably, but the delay allowed the ulcer to deepen.
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A doctor consults a patient. Photo: Doctor provided |
A doctor consults a patient. Photo: Doctor provided
Known for its vast knowledge base, ChatGPT can provide instant answers on a wide range of topics. However, many people mistakenly believe it can replace a doctor.
"ChatGPT should only be used as an initial information resource, not as a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis, and treatment," said Doctor Manh.
Medical diagnoses require clinical examination, lab tests, and a thorough review of a patient's medical history. All medications have potential side effects, but the decision to use them should be based on a careful risk-benefit assessment by a medical professional. For example, in treating erectile dysfunction, doctors must assess a patient's cardiovascular risk before prescribing PDE-5 inhibitors, as these can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. Dosage, timing, and frequency must be personalized and closely monitored.
Doctor Artie Shen, from New York University's Center for Data Science, points out that while AI can offer diagnoses, users often lack the medical background to understand the reasoning. Doctor Keith Horvath from the American Association of Medical Colleges agrees, stating that AI cannot match human flexibility and adaptability in complex situations. Doctors can adjust to changing conditions and rapidly evolving situations – a skill difficult to program into a computer. A study published in PLOS ONE found ChatGPT’s diagnostic accuracy in medical cases to be only 49%.
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ChatGPT should only be used as a reference tool. Photo: Screenshot |
ChatGPT should only be used as a reference tool. Photo: Screenshot
Furthermore, a core element of medicine that AI cannot replicate is empathy. Doctor Truong Huu Khanh, Vice President of the Ho Chi Minh City Infectious Diseases Association, cites the example of end-stage cancer patients requiring palliative care and psychological support. In such situations, a physician's understanding and compassion are crucial, providing comfort during the final stages of life. This is something a machine cannot offer.
Doctor Ngo Quang Hai, former Deputy Director of the Vietnam Acupuncture High-Tech Center at the Central Acupuncture Hospital, emphasizes that AI cannot perform physical examinations like pulse taking, throat examinations, or listening to heart and lungs. Therefore, AI assessments are only general. Traditional medicine emphasizes "treating the disease before it manifests." Early detection simplifies treatment. Delay can lead to worsening conditions and more complicated treatment, regardless of whether Eastern or Western medicine is used.
Experts advise individuals to be discerning in their information consumption, avoiding reliance on inanimate machines for health decisions. If unusual symptoms persist for more than one or two weeks, they recommend seeking professional medical advice.
Thuy Quynh
