Dr. Frank Amoakohene has cautioned the public against relying on artificial intelligence and online medical advice as a substitute for professional healthcare, stressing that AI should complement, not replace, qualified medical doctors.
In a public health message, Dr. Amoakohene acknowledged the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, noting that AI tools are helping to improve disease detection, monitoring, and overall health management.
However, he emphasized that AI lacks the human judgment required to properly examine patients, interpret complete medical histories, and make safe clinical decisions in all situations.
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He expressed concern that the increasing availability of online health advice is fueling self-medication, which often leads to incorrect treatment, delayed diagnosis, drug resistance, and avoidable complications.
According to him, these practices pose serious risks to public health and can result in life-threatening outcomes.
Dr. Amoakohene advised individuals to avoid treating themselves based on assumptions or information found online. Instead, he urged the public to visit recognised health facilities when unwell, undergo proper testing, and strictly follow professional medical guidance.
While affirming the usefulness of AI as a support tool in modern healthcare, he stressed that the responsibility of safeguarding lives ultimately rests with trained medical professionals. “AI can assist,” he noted, “but your doctor protects your life.”
