Evaluating the efficacy of artificial intelligence as a patient education tool in paediatric care: a cross-sectional comparative study
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Haidar, Vera Ellaha
Ruan, Alice
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Patients are increasingly seeking health information online, including from artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek. AI-generated information on common paediatric conditions was compared with NHS leaflets. Readability and content quality were assessed using five validated indices. NHS leaflets scored significantly higher in both quality and readability, meeting standards recommended for the general public, unlike AI outputs. Although accessible, AI tools demonstrated limitations in clarity, quality, and referencing sources, posing risks to patients. Until consistent standards are achieved, NHS-approved materials should remain the primary source for patient education, with AI requiring further refinement and human oversight.
Date Issued
2026-09-25
Date Acceptance
2026-09-09
Citation
BMJ Paediatrics Open, 2026, 10 (1)
ISSN
2399-9772
Publisher
BMJ Publishing Group
Journal / Book Title
BMJ Paediatrics Open
Volume
10
Issue
1
Copyright Statement
© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2026. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ Group.
License URL
Identifier
10.1136/bmjpo-2026-004890
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
e004890