  ChatGPT is an advanced natural language processing tool with growing
applications across various disciplines in medical research. Thematic analysis,
a qualitative research method to identify and interpret patterns in data, is
one application that stands to benefit from this technology. This viewpoint
explores the utilization of ChatGPT in three core phases of thematic analysis
within a medical context: 1) direct coding of transcripts, 2) generating themes
from a predefined list of codes, and 3) preprocessing quotes for manuscript
inclusion. Additionally, we explore the potential of ChatGPT to generate
interview transcripts, which may be used for training purposes. We assess the
strengths and limitations of using ChatGPT in these roles, highlighting areas
where human intervention remains necessary. Overall, we argue that ChatGPT can
function as a valuable tool during analysis, enhancing the efficiency of the
thematic analysis and offering additional insights into the qualitative data.
