Supporting Oncologists and Patients in the Age of AI

As generative AI tools like ChatGPT become part of daily life, more oncology patients are turning to these platforms — not just after diagnosis, but before and throughout treatment.

A new joint report from Klick Health and Impiricus, Beyond the Molecule: Supporting Oncologists and Patients in the Age of AI, reveals how this shift is quietly reshaping the patient–HCP dynamic — and what it means for pharma teams navigating an era of AI-informed care.

Based on SMS surveys with oncologists across the U.S., the study captures a moment of rapid transition: patients using AI to understand symptoms, explore treatment options, and even seek “virtual second opinions.” For many oncologists, this has introduced new complexities around misinformation, patient anxiety, and clinical trust.

The Patient – AI Surge

The data shows a clear trend: nearly half of surveyed oncologists report that their patients are already using AI tools to support their care decisions. Yet only one in ten believe this use is helpful.

Patients most often turn to AI early in their journey — during self-diagnosis, symptom research, or post-treatment exploration. While these tools can empower patients, they also risk creating confusion when AI-generated answers conflict with clinical guidance.

Commonly cited challenges included:

• Misinformation and misplaced confidence in AI-generated advice.

• Distrust or confusion when AI contradicts physician recommendations.

• Increased consultation time spent debunking...