ChatGPT, internet searches and ‘dhuk dhuk’: Rajnath Singh highlights challenges of self-diagnosis for doctors

On August 22, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the inauguration of a Mahajan Imaging and Labs facility and spoke about the challenges posed by self-diagnosis. He highlighted how people now often search for their symptoms online before consulting a doctor, with the rise of ChatGPT adding to this tendency. Singh noted that while increased health awareness was positive, it also posed a challenge, as people could mistakenly conclude a serious condition based on limited online research.

He recounted instances where patients presented with diagnoses they obtained from internet searches rather than describing their symptoms. Singh joked about patients using colloquial terms, such as describing chest pain as "dhuk dhuk," a term unfamiliar to medical professionals. He emphasized that such situations underscored the importance of thorough diagnostic testing and the need for technology to complement medical expertise.

Despite modern machines aiding doctors in understanding bodily functions, Singh stressed that the human element—empathy, understanding, and compassion—remains crucial in medical treatment. He also highlighted the heightened responsibility of healthcare professionals as technology advances, stressing the need for transparency, avoiding bias, and prioritizing patient safety.