TikTok Doc: 1 in 6 Aussies get health advice from social media instead of GP
A significant number of people are relying on social media for health advice, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,029 respondents revealed 16% of Australians – equivalent to 3.3 million people – have consulted social media for health advice instead of visiting a medical professional.
The data shows women (22%) are twice as likely as men (11%) to seek out health advice from social media.
Gen Z (36%) were more likely to admit they seek advice from social media, followed by gen Y (14%), gen X (9%), and baby boomers (2%).
Peta Taylor, insurance expert at Finder, said while social media may offer quick answers, it's no substitute for a proper consultation with a doctor.
"Unlike traditional medical sources, social media is largely unregulated. This means there's little oversight of the accuracy or safety of the information shared.
"Informed healthcare decisions should come from medical professionals, not viral content."
Taylor said while social media may seem like a convenient solution for busy Aussies, it doesn't come without risks.
"It's one thing to try a makeup trick or golf tip from an influencer, but there are real dangers for bypassing qualified medical professionals.
"Delaying a correct diagnosis could have devastating long term impacts.
"This trend also highlights the financial barriers many Australians face when accessing healthcare, with social media offering a more affordable alternative for those unable to visit a GP."
Taylor urged Aussies to take proactive steps to protect their health.
"Seek out GPs who offer bulk billing, meaning they accept the Medicare benefit as full payment, so you don't have out-of-pocket expenses.
"While it involves costs, private health insurance can cover services not included in Medicare, such as dental, optical, and some specialist treatments," Taylor said.
Do you consult social media for health advice instead of visiting a medical professional?
| Yes | 16% |
| No | 84% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,029 respondents, February 2025 |  |
Methodology
- Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker is a monthly recurring nationally representative survey of more than 60,000 respondents.
- Figures in this release are based on 1,029 respondents from February 2025.
- The Consumer Sentiment Tracker is owned by Finder and operated by Qualtrics.
- The survey has been running monthly since May 2019.
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