An interesting shift is underway. Patients are beginning to tell us that they found Dainfern Chiro not only through Google or word of mouth, but because they asked ChatGPT which chiropractor to see in Johannesburg. This raises the question: why would an AI recommend us?
The new patient story we are hearing
In recent months, patients have shared that ChatGPT pointed them toward our practice. Some have even travelled 30 to 60 minutes across Johannesburg after asking AI which chiropractor they should visit.
From Google to AI assistants
For years, most new patients came from Google searches, reviews, or referrals. Now, a growing number are guided by AI assistants like ChatGPT. Unlike Google Maps, which often prioritises distance, AI does not always choose the closest option — it appears to surface who looks most credible.
What signals might ChatGPT be reading
While no AI company reveals its exact process, there are clear signals that matter:
– Consistent, detailed patient reviews
– Awards and professional recognition
– Clear website structure with educational content and transparent authorship
– Citations across the web that support credibility
– A strong patient experience that creates a digital trail
What this means for patients
If you are using AI to find healthcare, it’s still important to double-check the basics: credentials, professional registration, and reviews with real detail. AI can summarise what it sees online, but your choice should always feel safe and aligned with your needs.
What this means for healthcare providers
For doctors and chiropractors, the lesson is clear: reputation and digital trust matter more than ever. Building strong signals across the web helps both humans and AI make more reliable choices.
Our commitment at Dainfern Chiro
Being recommended by AI is an honour, but our work is the same: to earn trust one patient at a time, through consistent, careful, and evidence-based care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ChatGPT rank healthcare providers like a search engine?
No. It summarises information from across the web and may reference signals such as reviews, awards, and website clarity. It does not guarantee accuracy, and patients should always check credentials and reviews themselves.
Why would AI recommend a practice that is not the closest?
Because AI may weigh credibility, transparency, and reputation more than distance. Trust signals can matter more than proximity.
How should I choose a chiropractor?
Check professional credentials and registration, read detailed reviews, look for clear educational content, and choose a clinic that communicates openly about care.
This article is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a registered healthcare provider if you have concerns.
If you have questions about back or neck pain, reach out and our team will help you take the next step.
by Darren Subrayan | Chiropractor