Social Media Physician

I was recent asked the question if physicians should be on Social Media and took it upon myself to research the question. I was reminded of this quote:

"History will be kind to me, for I intend to write it."

- Winston Churchill“

Why Social Media in Medicine:

• Social Media is an effective platform for physicians to share accurate health information, promote healthy behaviors, and connect with patients and colleagues.

• Social Media allows you to reach a broader audience and share important health information and medical advice.

• In 2021 American Medical Association survey - 70% of physicians reported using social media for personal use, while 60% reported using it for professional purposes.

How Do Trust & Responsibility Factor In Social Media?

What Guidelines Are You Providing To Your Physicians?

• Establishing Tone & Language to promote trust and healing.
• Setting Professional Standards.
• Reconsider sharing personal opinions or engaging in political discussions.  Ask: Does it provide healing?
• Use a professional tone, projecting a respectful and courteous tone when interacting with others.
• Refrain from making derogatory comments or using offensive language.

Patient Confidentiality

• Physicians should never disclose any information about their patients or their medical conditions on social media.
• Ensure that any information shared on social media is general and not specific to any patient.
• Even discussing a patient's case in a vague manner can potentially breach confidentiality, so it's important to err on the side of caution and avoid discussing specific patient cases altogether.

Medical Advice

• Physicians should avoid giving medical advice online, as it can be difficult to fully assess a patient's condition without an in-person examination.
• Instead, physicians can provide general information about medical conditions or treatments and encourage patients to schedule an appointment to discuss their individual situation.

Social Media Policies

• Each social media platform has its own unique features, audience, and style.
• Physicians should take the time to understand the platform they are using and tailor their posts accordingly.
• Social media policies can change frequently, so physicians should stay informed about any updates or changes to these policies.
• It's also important to adhere to the policies of any organization or institution that the physician is affiliated with, such as a hospital or medical practice.

Transparency

• Physicians should only share information that is accurate and supported by scientific evidence.
• They should also be mindful of misinformation and take steps to correct any inaccuracies.
• Physicians should be transparent about any conflicts of interest when discussing medical products or services on social media. This can include disclosing any financial relationships with companies or organizations that manufacture or promote certain medical products.

Things to consider

• Be aware of potential consequences
• Physicians should be mindful of their online reputation and the impact their posts may have on their patients, colleagues, and employer.

Using Social Media Responsibly

DEVELOP - PROVIDE - ENCOURAGE

• Develop clear policies and guidelines:
• Healthcare organizations and institutions should have clear policies and guidelines that provide direction to physicians on the appropriate use of social media.
• These policies should outline what is acceptable and what is not acceptable behavior on social media and should include specific examples of what is considered professional and unprofessional conduct.

• Provide education and training: 
• Healthcare organizations should provide education and training to physicians on the responsible use of social media. 
• This training should include information on privacy and confidentiality, professional boundaries, and the potential impact of social media on patient care.

• Encourage self-regulation: 
• Physicians should be encouraged to self-regulate their social media use by being mindful of their online presence, being respectful of patients and colleagues, and avoiding engaging in controversial topics or discussions that may be perceived as unprofessional. 
• Healthcare organizations can also encourage physicians to monitor their online reputation by regularly searching their name on search engines and social media platforms.

Takeaways:

• Social Media is an effective platform for physicians to share accurate health information, promote healthy behaviors, and connect with patients and colleagues.
• Physicians should be mindful of their online reputation and the impact their posts may have on their patients, colleagues, and employer.
• Physicians should adhere to guidelines and policies on social media use, including patient confidentiality and transparency about conflicts of interest.
• Healthcare organizations and institutions should provide education and training to physicians on the responsible use of social media.
• Physicians should self-regulate their social media use by being respectful of patients and colleagues, avoiding controversial topics, and monitoring their online reputation.