Rationale:
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of ChatGPT, an AI-based language model, as an educational tool for disseminating accurate information about epilepsy to the general population.
Methods:
A diverse sample of participants engaged with ChatGPT, an AI-based language model, to learn about epilepsy. They used a user-friendly interface to ask questions and prompts related to epilepsy, covering various aspects of the condition such as definition, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and impact on daily life. Examples of specific prompts used in this study included, “What is epilepsy?” and “How does epilepsy affect daily activities?” ChatGPT provided accurate and relevant information, including explanations, descriptions, and recommendations about epilepsy.
Results:
Participants reported an increased understanding of epilepsy following their interactions with ChatGPT. The model effectively provided accurate and relevant information about epilepsy, covering various aspects such as definition, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and management strategies. Participants found ChatGPT's responses to be informative, clear, and accessible, regardless of their prior knowledge or educational background.
Conclusions:
The utilization of ChatGPT as an educational tool for epilepsy information dissemination in the general population shows promise. Findings from this study suggest that ChatGPT can effectively enhance public knowledge and understanding of epilepsy. By providing accurate and accessible information, ChatGPT has the potential to bridge the gap between medical professionals and individuals seeking information about epilepsy. The interactive nature of the ChatGPT interface allows participants to engage in personalized conversations and obtain specific information tailored to their inquiries. This approach has the potential to empower individuals to make informed decisions about epilepsy management and support those living with epilepsy.
The accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided by ChatGPT are dependent on its training data, which was up to September 2021. Thus, periodic updates to incorporate the latest research and medical advancements are necessary to ensure the provision of up-to-date information. Additionally, individual participant characteristics and prior knowledge may influence their interpretation of the information provided.
Future research should explore the long-term impact of ChatGPT on knowledge retention, adherence to epilepsy management strategies, and overall well-being of individuals living with epilepsy. Further investigations are also warranted to assess the effectiveness of ChatGPT in comparison to other educational resources and to explore its potential applications in healthcare settings. Overall, ChatGPT holds promise as a valuable tool for epilepsy education and has the potential to improve awareness, understanding, and support for individuals affected by epilepsy in the general population.
Funding: N/A