Google has removed AI Overviews from several health-related search queries following concerns about the accuracy and context of medical information in its AI-generated summaries.
The move followed an investigation by The Guardian, which found incomplete guidance in Google’s AI Overviews for certain medical searches. One cited example was the query “What is the normal range for liver blood tests?” The AI-generated summary failed to account for key variables, including age, sex, ethnicity, and nationality. Experts warned that such omissions could lead users to misinterpret their test results.
After the report was published, AI Overviews no longer appeared in response to specific queries. These included “what is the normal range for liver blood tests” and “what is the normal range for liver function tests.” However, similar searches using alternative phrasing, such as “lft reference range,” still returned AI summaries.
Google removes AI Overviews for certain medical queries https://t.co/SdxJZ4YY4K
— TechCrunch (@TechCrunch) January 11, 2026According to TechCrunch, follow-up testing shortly after the Guardian’s investigation showed that AI Overviews were removed from the highlighted queries. Google still offered users the option to ask follow-up questions using its AI Mode.
In an ironic turn, the top organic result for several of these searches directed users to the Guardian’s article. This article details the removal of the AI Overviews.
Google declined to comment on specific changes but said it remains focused on improving its systems. A company spokesperson said internal health experts reviewed the affected queries and concluded that the information shown was not necessarily inaccurate and was supported by reputable sources. Despite that, Google said it is committed to making “meaningful improvements” where needed.
Vanessa Hebditch, director of communications and policy at the British Liver Trust, welcomed the removal. She cautioned, however, that the decision addresses only a narrow issue. It does not fully resolve broader concerns around the use of AI-generated summaries in health-related searches.
The development highlights growing scrutiny over AI tools in sensitive areas. Medical information requires context, nuance, and expert guidance to be accurate.
