Review of artificial intelligence-based question-answering systems in healthcare

Abstract

Use of conversational agents, like chatbots, avatars, and robots is increasing worldwide. Yet, their effectiveness in health care is largely unknown. The aim of this advanced review was to assess the use and effectiveness of conversational agents in various fields of health care. A literature search, analysis, and synthesis were conducted in February 2022 in PubMed and CINAHL. The included evidence was analyzed narratively by employing the principles of thematic analysis. We reviewed articles on artificial intelligence-based question-answering systems in health care. Most of the identified articles report its effectiveness; less is known about its use. We outlined study findings and explored directions of future research, to provide evidence-based knowledge about artificial intelligence-based question-answering systems. This article is categorized under: Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Human Centricity and User Interaction Application Areas > Health Care Technologies > Artificial Intelligence.