44% cited it as a 2026 work challenge
The survey included more than 2,700 GPs. The Royal Australian College of GPs said new data from its upcoming 2026 Health of the Nation report shows concern about medical misinformation in communities has jumped considerably.
In the nationwide survey, 44% of GPs identified addressing misinformation in the community as a challenge in their work in 2026. That was up from 35% in 2025.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the findings from the nationwide survey of more than 2,700 GPs show growing concern among frontline doctors about online misinformation and AI-generated health content affecting 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.
He said inaccurate online advice can delay diagnosis, discourage preventive healthcare, undermine trust in evidence-based medicine, and in some cases put health at serious risk. Dr Wright also said misinformation is becoming harder to identify and counter as AI-generated content becomes more widespread, more personalised and more convincing.
RACGP urges federal backing
The RACGP said the findings come as governments, regulators and health organisations grapple with the opportunities and risks linked to AI in healthcare. Government guidance highlights that AI can improve diagnosis and treatment, but it can also be difficult to interpret and may not perform equally well for all patients.
Dr Wright said AI and other new technologies should 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,” Dr Wright said.
He said the RACGP also wants a national general practice-based research network to generate evidence to improve patient care in communities across Australia.
Dr Wright encouraged patients to discuss health information they find online with their GP, saying general practice is often where misinformation is identified and corrected before it causes harm.
“If you are unsure whether health information you have seen online is accurate, talk to your GP,” Dr Wright said.
