PETALING JAYA: Artificial intelligence tools may be useful for general health information, but they should not replace consultation with a qualified doctor or pharmacist, the Ministry of Health says.
The report said people should not rely solely on AI-generated advice when diagnosing a disease, determining whether treatment is needed, or purchasing medicines.
“The Department will continue to support public education on the safe and responsible use of digital health information and encourage the public to refer to trusted Department channels and qualified health professionals.
“The ministry will also consider increasing oversight where AI-generated advice may have led to inappropriate self-medication or delays in care,” it said in response to questions from the Star.
The Star previously reported that more Malaysians are turning to AI chatbots for health information, from checking symptoms and understanding medical reports to learning about medicines and traditional treatments.
In the report, medical experts welcomed the technology as a useful educational tool, but warned that such information should not be mistaken for a diagnosis.
The ministry’s Pharmacy Enforcement Bureau said so far there have been no concrete reports of serious adverse effects from people buying or using medicines based solely on recommendations generated by AI tools.
We have not received any complaints with serious outcomes such as misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or side effects.
However, he cautioned that lack of reporting should not be taken as evidence that a risk does not exist.
The ministry said it monitors and screens advertisements for medicines across print, electronic and digital platforms to ensure compliance with the law.
For digital platforms, the review also covers websites, social media platforms, and e-commerce platforms.
The ministry also said it is working with relevant institutions and online platform operators to identify and remove listings that promote the sale of unregistered, adulterated, or prescription medicines without proper authorization.
It also said it is implementing consumer awareness programs to educate the public about the safe purchase of regulated products and the risks associated with unregistered medicines and undelivered cosmetics sold online.
The ministry’s Tolak Ubat Tidak Sah campaign is one such program, which aims to encourage consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing products through online platforms.
