Investigating the use of online symptom checkers in general practice from the perspectives of older adults and general practitioners.

Online symptom checkers are automated tools that ask users about their health symptoms, providing potential explanations or diagnoses, and, when suitable, directing users to appropriate healthcare providers or offering self-care measures. Despite their convenience, relying on these AI-powered tools in general practice raises concerns about access inequalities and their impact on the doctor-patient relationship. This is particularly pertinent for older adults, who encounter additional obstacles in accessing GP services, are often digitally excluded, and value their doctor-patient relationship.