Florida pastor sues OpenAI after ChatGPT dismissed his symptoms for six weeks before a near-fatal pulmonary embolism
Scott Winters, a 55-year-old Florida pastor and real estate professional, is suing OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman after he claims ChatGPT repeatedly dismissed his symptoms of a pulmonary embolism for six weeks, leading to a near-fatal medical emergency. Winters began using ChatGPT in June 2024 for general queries but by March 2025 was using it for supplement dosing and medical advice. In June 2025, the chatbot diagnosed him with dysautonomia and advised him to stay 'recliner-bound,' discouraging him from seeking medical attention. On July 13, 2025, he was rushed to the ICU with blood clots in both lungs and right ventricular strain. Doctors attributed the embolism to his lack of movement and noted the dysautonomia diagnosis was self-sourced from the internet. The lawsuit, filed July 22, 2026, in San Francisco County Superior Court, includes eight causes of action including strict product liability, negligence, and violations of California's Unfair Competition Law. The case highlights risks of relying on AI for medical advice.
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