Australians are being inundated with health information from more sources than ever before, making it increasingly difficult to know what advice is credible and who to trust. It is particularly difficult for patients to know who to trust in an era of rampant AI use, where ‘manufactured evidence’ that looks credible but is false, is increasingly distributed online.
In response, the Australian Medical Association has released an updated Role of the Doctor position statement , outlining the unique role doctors play in diagnosing illness, managing risk, supporting informed decision making and providing safe, accountable medical care.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said trusted medical advice — trained in medical evidence — has never been more important.
“Australians are increasingly being asked to navigate complex and often conflicting health information online, while new technologies such as artificial intelligence are rapidly changing the way healthcare is delivered,” Dr McMullen said.
“At times like these, having access to a doctor who can listen, assess the whole picture, make a diagnosis, explain risks and uncertainties, and take responsibility for clinical decisions is more important than ever.”
The position statement sets out the core knowledge, skills and responsibilities that define medical practice, highlighting the importance of trust in the patient-doctor relationship and the role doctors play in helping patients understand complex information and make informed choices about care.
“Australians deserve a doctor — someone who can listen, assess the whole picture, make a diagnosis, manage risk, and take responsibility for the outcome,” Dr McMullen said.
“At a time when misinformation spreads faster than facts, patients need someone they can trust to explain what the evidence shows and what it means for them. That trust is earned through years of medical education, supervised training, and ongoing professional development.”
Dr McMullen said the AMA’s Have the Jab Chat campaign demonstrated the value of trusted conversations between patients and their doctors.
“Whether people are seeking advice about a new diagnosis, weighing up treatment options, or trying to make sense of information they found online, doctors play a critical role in helping patients make informed decisions and navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system,” Dr McMullen said.
“Healthcare is a team effort, but patients should never be left wondering who is responsible for diagnosing their condition, coordinating their care, and managing clinical risk. Doctors have a unique role in the health system, and that role remains central to delivering safe, high-quality patient care.”
Read the Role of the Doctor position statement .
