Zamboanga city: An official of the government-run Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC) has advised the public to consult with physicians instead of relying on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other online applications for their health needs. 'This is dangerous because AI and other online apps cannot personalize your medical treatment,' Dr. Shadrina Tahil-Sarapuddin, an internist and ZCMC spokesperson, said in a statement Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sarapuddin emphasized that physicians must be able to physically examine patients and consider factors like physical features and comorbidities, which online apps are not capable of doing. Sarapuddin issued this advice amidst the increasing use of AI and dependency on internet search engines for health-related queries.

Some individuals have resorted to posting their symptoms online and searching for medical advice instead of seeking medical consultation from a physician. 'Physical examination is really important, which cannot be done by online apps,' Sarapuddin reiterated.

She further explained that patients could receive the correct diagnosis and treatment, including medicine, by personally visiting their physician. Sarapuddin also highlighted that ZCMC has an out-patient department where residents can avail medical consultation from physicians, including specialists.