The CADTH Horizon Scan explores the use of AI chatbots in healthcare, focusing on their potential benefits, challenges, and implications for patient care. AI chatbots are computer programs designed to engage in simulated conversations with humans, offering 24/7 access to health information, symptom assessment, medication reminders, and appointment scheduling. They can help reduce the burden on healthcare providers by automating routine tasks and improving efficiency. However, the clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness remains limited, and there are concerns about data privacy, ethical issues, and algorithmic bias. AI chatbots can be used in primary care, specialist care, and for general health and wellness information. They are available through web-based and app-based interfaces and are often free for patients, though some features may require payment. The use of AI chatbots is growing, particularly in mental health, where they can provide support and connect users with healthcare providers. However, there are concerns about the accuracy of information provided, the potential for harmful advice, and the need for human oversight. The development of AI-specific ethical frameworks is recommended to ensure safer and more consistent use of AI tools in healthcare. AI chatbots require human oversight for moderation and troubleshooting. They can help with appointment scheduling, patient reminders, and managing chronic conditions, but they cannot replace human healthcare providers. Chatbots may not be suitable for complex medical scenarios that require human judgment and empathy. The regulatory landscape for AI chatbots in Canada is still evolving, with no specific authorization process in place. Developers must consider data privacy, security, and ethical issues when creating AI chatbots. There are also concerns about the generalizability of AI datasets and the potential for bias in AI algorithms, which can affect the accuracy and fairness of chatbot responses. AI chatbots have the potential to improve access to healthcare for people in rural or remote areas and those who may not have easy access to healthcare providers. However, there is a risk of creating an access gap for individuals with limited digital literacy or access to technology. The cost of developing and maintaining AI chatbots can vary, with some companies offering monthly fees for integration into websites. The evidence supporting the effectiveness of AI chatbots in healthcare is mixed, with some studies showing positive outcomes in areas such as mental health, chronic disease management, and health behavior change. However, there is a need for more research to establish the long-term effectiveness and safety of AI chatbots in healthcare settings. The use of AI chatbots in healthcare requires careful consideration of ethical, legal, and technical issues to ensure they are used safely and effectively.The CADTH Horizon Scan explores the use of AI chatbots in healthcare, focusing on their potential benefits, challenges, and implications for patient care. AI chatbots are computer programs designed to engage in simulated conversations with humans, offering 24/7 access to health information, symptom assessment, medication reminders, and appointment scheduling. They can help reduce the burden on healthcare providers by automating routine tasks and improving efficiency. However, the clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness remains limited, and there are concerns about data privacy, ethical issues, and algorithmic bias. AI chatbots can be used in primary care, specialist care, and for general health and wellness information. They are available through web-based and app-based interfaces and are often free for patients, though some features may require payment. The use of AI chatbots is growing, particularly in mental health, where they can provide support and connect users with healthcare providers. However, there are concerns about the accuracy of information provided, the potential for harmful advice, and the need for human oversight. The development of AI-specific ethical frameworks is recommended to ensure safer and more consistent use of AI tools in healthcare. AI chatbots require human oversight for moderation and troubleshooting. They can help with appointment scheduling, patient reminders, and managing chronic conditions, but they cannot replace human healthcare providers. Chatbots may not be suitable for complex medical scenarios that require human judgment and empathy. The regulatory landscape for AI chatbots in Canada is still evolving, with no specific authorization process in place. Developers must consider data privacy, security, and ethical issues when creating AI chatbots. There are also concerns about the generalizability of AI datasets and the potential for bias in AI algorithms, which can affect the accuracy and fairness of chatbot responses. AI chatbots have the potential to improve access to healthcare for people in rural or remote areas and those who may not have easy access to healthcare providers. However, there is a risk of creating an access gap for individuals with limited digital literacy or access to technology. The cost of developing and maintaining AI chatbots can vary, with some companies offering monthly fees for integration into websites. The evidence supporting the effectiveness of AI chatbots in healthcare is mixed, with some studies showing positive outcomes in areas such as mental health, chronic disease management, and health behavior change. However, there is a need for more research to establish the long-term effectiveness and safety of AI chatbots in healthcare settings. The use of AI chatbots in healthcare requires careful consideration of ethical, legal, and technical issues to ensure they are used safely and effectively.