Written by : Nikita Saha
December 11, 2024
While it does not replace professional healthcare, Grok provides valuable preliminary interpretations that can help users decide when to seek further medical attention.
The highly anticipated Grok AI by Elon Musk is now available for free. xAI, the tech company owned by Musk, has secretly launched the free version of Grok.
This in-house artificial intelligence model is now accessible to all users on X (formerly known as Twitter), although it may have some limitations.
Available now through both desktop and mobile versions of the X app, the AI can analyze various medical images, including X-rays, MRIs, and PET scans.
While it does not replace professional healthcare, Grok provides valuable preliminary interpretations that can help users decide when to seek further medical attention.
Grok AI, launched in 2023, has quickly gained attention for its potential to revolutionize the healthcare experience by offering users free access to medical insights.
Elon Musk, a vocal proponent of AI’s potential to transform healthcare, previously encouraged users to test Grok's capabilities by submitting images for analysis.
In an October 2024 post, Musk suggested users submit X-rays, PET scans, and MRIs for analysis, stating, "This is still early stage, but it is already quite accurate and will become extremely good."
He emphasized that Grok could provide insights, such as detecting unusual cholesterol levels or identifying abnormalities in X-ray images that could require follow-up with a doctor.
Despite being a work in progress, Grok’s early performance has impressed users.
One X user shared how the AI accurately analyzed a photo of a surgical wound, offering detailed insights into healing progress. Another user described Grok's ability to guide them through caring for an infected hangnail until they could reach a doctor. “Grok knows surgery care,” the user posted, highlighting the AI’s potential for everyday healthcare assistance.
While Grok is not intended to replace real doctors, Musk has emphasized that the AI offers a useful tool for initial consultations, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare.
He stated, "It could point out if your cholesterol levels are on a joyride or if there's something unusual lurking in your MRI that might warrant a follow-up with an actual medical professional."
For now, Grok’s capabilities remain a subject of fascination, especially for those seeking a low-cost alternative to traditional healthcare consultations. With the average cost of a primary care consultation in the US ranging from $100 to $200, Grok offers a much more affordable option for users who need quick, initial insights into their health.
The free availability of the AI on X offers a glimpse into a future where AI may play a more prominent role in personal health management.