Anthropic has rolled out a new set of health-focused capabilities for its Claude chatbot, giving users tools to better interpret and manage their personal medical information.
The update, introduced under a program called Claude for Healthcare, allows U.S.-based subscribers on Claude Pro and Max plans to securely connect their health data to the platform. Users can link lab results and medical records through HealthEx and Function, with support for Apple Health and Android Health Connect expected to arrive shortly via mobile app updates.
Once connected, Claude can provide easy-to-read summaries of medical history, explain lab results in everyday language, highlight trends across health and fitness metrics, and help users prepare questions ahead of doctor visits. According to the company, the goal is to help patients feel more informed and better prepared during healthcare conversations, not to replace medical professionals.
Growing Competition in AI Health Tools
The announcement follows a similar move by OpenAI, which recently introduced ChatGPT Health. That offering allows users to connect medical records and wellness apps to receive tailored insights, including explanations of test results, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle suggestions.
As AI tools expand further into healthcare, concerns around safety and accuracy continue to grow. Tech companies face increasing pressure to ensure their systems do not provide misleading or harmful medical advice. Earlier this year, Google removed certain AI-generated health summaries after they were found to contain errors.
Both Anthropic and OpenAI stress that their systems are designed to support users, not diagnose conditions or replace licensed clinicians. They openly acknowledge that AI-generated responses may be incomplete or incorrect.
Privacy and Safety Controls
Anthropic emphasized that Claude’s health integrations are built with privacy in mind. Users decide exactly what data Claude can access and can revoke permissions or disconnect services at any time. The company also states that personal health information shared through these connections is not used to train its AI models.
In its usage policies, Anthropic makes it clear that AI-generated health-related content must be reviewed by qualified professionals in high-risk scenarios, such as medical decision-making, diagnosis, treatment planning, or mental health support.
Claude is also designed to surface disclaimers, communicate uncertainty when appropriate, and guide users back to healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.
The Bigger Picture
As AI assistants increasingly move into sensitive areas like healthcare, companies are walking a careful line between usefulness and responsibility. Tools like Claude for Healthcare signal a broader shift toward patient-facing AI support, while reinforcing the message that these systems are aids for understanding, not authorities on medical care.