The number of GPs concerned about medical misinformation in their communities has jumped considerably, according to new data from the RACGP's upcoming 2026 Health of the Nation report.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said findings from the nationwide survey of more than 2,700 GPs highlight growing concerns among frontline doctors about the impact of online misinformation and AI-generated health content on patient care.
"It is clear that patients are increasingly turning to online platforms, social media and AI-powered tools for health information before they speak with a doctor," Dr Wright said.
"The rapid growth of artificial intelligence is making it easier for health misinformation to spread online. Our report shows 44% of GPs identified addressing misinformation in the community as a challenge in their work in 2026, up from 35% in 2025.
"Unfortunately, health misinformation is becoming more difficult to identify and counter as AI-generated content becomes more widespread, more personalised and more convincing.
"Health decisions are highly personal. When people rely on inaccurate online advice, it can delay diagnosis, discourage preventive healthcare, undermine trust in evidence-based medicine, and in some cases put their health at serious risk.
"Seeing a GP directly is still the best way to access trusted, credible evidence based medical advice that takes into account your medical history, risk factors, medications and personal circumstances."
The RACGP said the findings come at a time when governments, regulators, and health organisations are also grappling with both the opportunities and risks created by AI technologies in healthcare.
Government guidance highlights that while AI can improve diagnosis and treatment, it can also be difficult to interpret and may not perform equally well for all patients.
Dr Wright said it is crucial for AI and other innovative new technologies to be rolled out with a focus on safety, transparency, and trust.
"To combat this misinformation, the RACGP is calling on the Federal Government to strengthen Australia's evidence base for primary care and support the resources GPs rely on to provide high-quality advice," he said
"We are also wanting to establish of a national general practice-based research network to generate the evidence needed to improve patient care in communities across Australia.
"If we want Australians to have access to accurate health information and the highest quality care, we must continue investing in the research, guidelines, and general practice services that support evidence-based medicine."
Dr Wright encouraged patients to discuss any health information they find online with their GP who can play a critical role in helping them navigate the growing volume of health information available.
"Every day, GPs are helping patients separate evidence-based information from myths, misinformation, and increasingly sophisticated AI-generated content," he said.
"General practice is often where misinformation is identified and corrected before it causes harm. That trusted relationship between a patient and their GP has never been more important.
"If you are unsure whether health information you have seen online is accurate, talk to your GP.
"A conversation with a trusted family doctor will always be more reliable than advice generated by an algorithm that doesn't know you or your health history."
