Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background/aim: Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots are increasingly used for accessing health information, yet their impact on healthcare-seeking behavior remains insufficiently understood. This study assessed the use, perceived reliability, and influence of AI chatbots on healthcare-seeking behaviors among visitors of two outpatient clinics in Northern Cyprus. Materials and methods An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients and companions attending the Lefkoşa Tren Yolu Health Center and Near East University Hospital outpatient clinics. 2,825 participants (1,853 patients, 972 companions) were included. A structured questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics, health status, healthcare practices, and AI-related attitudes. Data were collected face-to-face Attitude levels were categorized as negative, neutral, or positive using a 10-item Likert scale (Cronbach's α = 0.675). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, with chi-square tests and binary logistic regression (p < 0.05 considered significant). Results Among participants, 91.1% had heard of AI, and 73.7% had used AI for health-related questions, primarily for disease information (50.8%) and symptoms (45.6%). AI answers were perceived as helpful by 54.5% of users. AI delayed doctor visits in 22.5% while encouraging visits in 43.2%. Trust in AI answers was low (31.9%), and 47.5% were unsure. Most participants (68.7%) had neutral attitudes toward AI in healthcare. Age, education, country of residence, marital status, and income level were significantly associated with attitude levels. Regression analysis showed that younger age and Turkish nationals predicted future willingness to use AI. Conclusion AI chatbots are widely used for health information seeking, particularly among younger populations, but trust remains limited. While AI may serve as a supportive tool, concerns about accuracy and potential delays in seeking professional care highlight the need for improved digital health literacy and regulatory oversight.</p>