Abstract Background AI is being incorporated into healthcare by major tech companies, but public acceptance remains challenging. The study aims to understand resistance to AI despite its increasing accuracy and potential to improve patient waiting times. Method In partnership with the University of Hull and the Academic Health Science Network (AHSN) in the UK, a study was conducted that involved 111 adult patients or carers. 9 did not respond while 28 demonstrated poor digital literacy and therefore excluded. An interactive user page was designed for the remaining users (n=74) to engage with medical chatbot. The participants were asked whether participants would use an AI-powered medical chatbot or nurse for triage at their nearest A&E. Unstructured open-ended interviews were conducted to understand the participants' reasoning behind their answers. Finding Participants ranged in age from 21 to 74, with a slight female majority (40 female vs 34 male). The majority, 79.8% (n=59) respondents, expressed their comfort with a nurse-led care while a mere 20.2% (n=15) showed readiness to interact with a medical chatbot. Notably, the age group of 20-40 was most open to the idea of consulting a chatbot. The four primary objections were: 90.5% (n = 67) believed that the chatbot fails to justify its decisions, 59.5% (n = 44) doubt its accuracy, 78.4% (n = 58) felt that the chatbot was inflexible, and 79.7% (n = 59) found it unemotional and detached. Conclusion Effective treatment relies on trust, respect and understanding, crucial elements needed when incorporating AI in medicine. It should be introduced progressively, considering patients' emotions and societal circumstances.