ChatGPT vs. neurologists: a cross-sectional study investigating preference, satisfaction ratings and perceived empathy in responses among people living with multiple sclerosis

ChatGPT is an open-source natural language processing software that replies to users’ queries. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess people living with Multiple Sclerosis’ (PwMS) preferences, satisfaction, and empathy toward two alternate responses to four frequently-asked questions, one authored by a group of neurologists, the other by ChatGPT. An online form was sent through digital communication platforms. PwMS were blind to the author of each response and were asked to express their preference for each alternate response to the four questions. The overall satisfaction was assessed using a Likert scale (1–5); the Consultation and Relational Empathy scale was employed to assess perceived empathy. We included 1133 PwMS (age, 45.26 ± 11.50 years; females, 68.49