Florida pastor sues OpenAI, says ChatGPT delayed his medical care

A 55-year-old pastor from Florida has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and Chief Executive Sam Altman, alleging that ChatGPT provided misleading medical advice that caused him to postpone seeking a doctor. The lawsuit was filed on 21 July in a San Francisco court, according to the BBC. The plaintiff, Scott Winters, said he turned to ChatGPT frequently for health guidance while experiencing dizziness and blood pressure problems. According to the complaint, his condition developed into a pulmonary embolism involving multiple blood clots in his lungs, which doctors said was life-threatening. Winters alleged that the chatbot encouraged him to stay home and avoid physical activity, increasing health risks associated with prolonged inactivity. Screenshots included in the lawsuit showed ChatGPT using religious language, including statements that "God did not design your body to fail indefinitely" and that "God continues to protect your body with every heartbeat." His lawyers argued that such language built trust in the chatbot's responses and led his family to dismiss advice to see a doctor. OpenAI spokesman Drew Pusateri reiterated that ChatGPT does not replace a doctor and should not be used for diagnosis or treatment. No further details about the case were immediately available.