ChatGPT medical advice nearly killed man, lawsuit claims

Pastor sues OpenAI, says ChatGPT’s medical advice nearly cost him his life

A Florida pastor has sued OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman, alleging that medical advice from ChatGPT delayed life-saving treatment and left him fighting for his life.

Scott Winters, 55, claims the AI chatbot repeatedly dismissed his symptoms and discouraged him from seeking medical attention before he suffered a massive pulmonary embolism caused by blood clots in both lungs.

The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco on July 21, alleges ChatGPT misdiagnosed Winters’ condition and used references to his Christian faith to reassure him that he would recover, despite worsening symptoms. His lawyers say the chatbot’s responses encouraged him to remain at home instead of going to the hospital, even as family and friends urged him to seek emergency care.

Doctors later concluded that prolonged immobility contributed to the blood clots that nearly killed him.

The lawsuit also claims ChatGPT blended medical guidance with religious messages, strengthening Winters’ trust in the chatbot and influencing his decision to ignore medical advice. His attorneys argue that the AI’s authoritative tone and personalized responses created a dangerous dependence that ultimately led to severe physical, emotional and financial consequences.

Winters is seeking damages and asking the court to require OpenAI to introduce stronger safety measures to prevent similar incidents.

In response, OpenAI said ChatGPT is not a doctor and should never replace professional medical care, diagnosis or treatment. The company added that AI should be used to help people better understand health information and prepare for discussions with qualified healthcare providers—not as a substitute for medical advice.

OpenAI’s terms of use also warn users not to rely on ChatGPT as their sole source of information when making important decisions, including those related to medical care.