Portugal sees 51% consider AI over doctor visits, study shows

A STADA Health Report 2026 survey of about 20,000 respondents across 20 countries found that 51% of Portuguese say they would turn to artificial intelligence rather than book a medical appointment, below the 58% average among the surveyed nations. Portugal placed 15th out of 20 countries, with Kazakhstan leading at 74% and Uzbekistan at 45%.

Among Portuguese users, 30% employ AI to understand diagnoses, 22% for disease prevention, 13% to prepare for a consultation, 11% for a second opinion, and 6% for mental‑health support. Forty‑one percent would be willing to store their full health history in an AI system. Concerns remain strong: 61% fear incorrect diagnoses, 46% worry about misuse of health data, and 43% are uneasy about reduced human interaction.

Despite reservations, half of the respondents believe AI can deliver faster diagnoses (51%), improve access to care (38%) and help doctors stay up‑to‑date with scientific advances (35%). A related finding from the same report shows only 44% of Portuguese feel in control of managing their own health, the lowest score among the surveyed nations, and 54% express satisfaction with the national health service.

The data suggest growing acceptance of AI tools in health while highlighting persistent doubts about accuracy, privacy and the role of clinicians.