Public Versus Academic Discourse on ChatGPT in Health Care: Mixed Methods Study
Abstract BackgroundThe rapid emergence of artificial intelligence–based large language models (LLMs) in 2022 has initiated extensive discussions within the academic community. While proponents highlight LLMs’ potential to improve writing and analytical tasks, critics caution a...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
JMIR Publications
2025-06-01
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| Series: | JMIR Infodemiology |
| Online Access: | https://infodemiology.jmir.org/2025/1/e64509 |
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| Summary: | Abstract
BackgroundThe rapid emergence of artificial intelligence–based large language models (LLMs) in 2022 has initiated extensive discussions within the academic community. While proponents highlight LLMs’ potential to improve writing and analytical tasks, critics caution against the ethical and cultural implications of widespread reliance on these models. Existing literature has explored various aspects of LLMs, including their integration, performance, and utility, yet there is a gap in understanding the nature of these discussions and how public perception contrasts with expert opinion in the field of public health.
ObjectiveThis study sought to explore how the general public’s views and sentiments regarding LLMs, using OpenAI’s ChatGPT as an example, differ from those of academic researchers and experts in the field, with the goal of gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the future role of LLMs in health care.
MethodsWe used a hybrid sentiment analysis approach, integrating the Syuzhet package in R (R Core Team) with GPT-3.5, achieving an 84% accuracy rate in sentiment classification. Also, structural topic modeling was applied to identify and analyze 8 key discussion topics, capturing both optimistic and critical perspectives on LLMs.
ResultsFindings revealed a predominantly positive sentiment toward LLM integration in health care, particularly in areas such as patient care and clinical decision-making. However, concerns were raised regarding their suitability for mental health support and patient communication, highlighting potential limitations and ethical challenges.
ConclusionsThis study underscores the transformative potential of LLMs in public health while emphasizing the need to address ethical and practical concerns. By comparing public discourse with academic perspectives, our findings contribute to the ongoing scholarly debate on the opportunities and risks associated with LLM adoption in health care. |
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| ISSN: | 2564-1891 |