Understand test results while you wait for a specialist
A case study in the Journal of Participatory Medicine describes a family that used ChatGPT between diagnostic imaging and a surgical consultation to put medical records into plain language, prepare for visits, and share summaries with relatives. The authors report the family felt more informed and empowered, and stress that AI output must be checked.
What they did
Written from the view of a caregiver and a clinician colleague, the paper describes using ChatGPT to understand test results, read about possible diagnoses and treatments, prepare questions, and write short summaries for the extended care team.
How it went
The family reported understanding their health information better, feeling more prepared emotionally, and communicating more easily with the care team. The authors also note the limits and the need to validate what the AI says.
Worth knowing
Treat AI explanations as homework before the appointment, not as a diagnosis. Remove names and ID numbers before pasting records, and confirm everything with the care team.
Try it yourself
Copy this into ChatGPT (or any AI assistant). Replace the parts in [brackets] with your own details.
I'm helping a family member understand a medical report while we wait for a specialist appointment. I've removed names, dates of birth, and ID numbers. Please (1) explain the report in plain English, term by term, (2) separate what is clearly stated from what the report says needs more testing, and (3) suggest eight questions to ask the specialist. Don't tell me a diagnosis; help me know what to ask. [paste report]
Source: Schoening MB, Cotliar D, Journal of Participatory Medicine (via PubMed), Feb 20, 2026. Read the original →
From a published research paper. Summarized in our own words. Spotted a mistake or want this removed? Tell us.