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February 12, 2026AI Chatbot for Health and Community Support
Funded project · In development
We are developing an AI chatbot (https://clinicalaichat.org) to support patients and healthcare professionals in managing chronic conditions and communicating about care. Initial work focuses on type 2 diabetes, related health conditions, and care transitions.
The project combines AI development with nursing, health communication, and clinical expertise. We are also exploring future applications for community health workers and patient information support.
Why This Work Matters
Patients and families make health decisions between appointments, often while managing several conditions and navigating information from different sources.
This project aims to develop and evaluate support that is useful in everyday situations and keeps healthcare professionals appropriately involved.
Our Team
The project is led by Shuhong Luo at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi.
Bo Guo leads chatbot design, development, and testing. Yan Su contributes research design and communication evaluation. Gina R. Vasquez focuses on trust, ethical AI communication, and engagement. Raghuveer Puttagunta provides clinical advice and safety oversight.
Current Progress
The project is in development. Current work includes refining the chatbot prototype, team testing, and preparation for evaluation with intended users.
We are also exploring healthcare and community partnerships to help shape future work.
Interested in the Research?
Patients, healthcare professionals, and community organizations are welcome to contact the study team to ask about participation or collaboration opportunities.
Funding and Institutional Collaboration
This project receives research support through the Texas A&M University System’s REF program.
Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi is the lead institution. The investigator team includes colleagues affiliated with Texas A&M University–Texarkana, Tarleton State University, and Texas A&M University–Kingsville.