ChatGPT's medical advice nearly killed a man, lawsuit claims

A Florida man has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, alleging that the medical advice provided by ChatGPT led to a life-threatening health crisis. Scott Winters, a former pastor, claims the chatbot's inaccurate recommendations discouraged him from seeking timely medical treatment for symptoms that ultimately resulted in a pulmonary embolism.

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ChatGPT-4o frequently opined on and evaluated Scott's physical condition, conveying the authority and confidence of a medical professional rendering a clinical assessment and treatment recommendation, despite not having the qualifications to do so.

The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco County Superior Court, asserts that ChatGPT crossed the line from providing information to practicing medicine without a license. Winters argues that OpenAI prioritized user engagement and profit over public safety, failing to implement adequate safeguards against harmful health advice. The suit specifically cites ChatGPT-4o's "authoritative" but unqualified "clinical assessment and treatment recommendation" of Winters' symptoms.

According to the lawsuit, Winters consulted ChatGPT-4o in 2025 about experiencing dizziness and blood pressure instability. The chatbot allegedly downplayed these symptoms, advising him to remain "recliner-bound." Weeks later, in July 2025, Winters suffered a "massive pulmonary embolism." One of his doctors reportedly attributed the embolism to the immobility recommended by ChatGPT. Matthew P. Bergman, an attorney involved in the case, stated, "Scott Winters nearly died because ChatGPT acted like a medical authority while having none of the responsibility."

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Scott Winters nearly died because ChatGPT acted like a medical authority while having none of the responsibility.

Winters also reportedly consulted ChatGPT on the day of his medical emergency, asking if groin tenderness warranted a hospital visit. The chatbot's response allegedly drew on Winters' spirituality, suggesting divine guidance rather than immediate medical attention. OpenAI has stated that its chatbot is not designed to replace medical professionals.

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If ChatGPT were a physician dispensing medical advice, it would be guilty of medical malpractice.