Social media is being used in a variety of
occupations including medicine. Some physicians feel that social-media can be a
practical and available way to share data with clients. These communications
must be used with caution and professionalism. The American Medical Association
adopted a social networking policy in 2010. Guidelines encourage doctors to:
- Set privacy settings to the highest degree that is possible and check their Net presence to make sure that both personal and professional information posted about them is correct and appropriate
- Maintain patient-doctor boundaries
- Consider separate online presence for personal and professional use
- Realize that online postings and material might have an adverse impact on reputation and could bring about professional consequences
A study from the University of California,
Bay Area, found several activities were considered more prone to bring about inquiry
by state medical boards. Quoting inaccurate data was rated as number one, followed
by misrepresenting professional credibility, using patient photos without consent,
and inappropriately contacting patients. Ongoing education regarding likely
effects of social media is essential to ensure proper and professional use. Although
social networking can be an excellent tool for doctor patient communication, it
must be used responsibly.
To learn more about social-media
guidelines in medicine, contact us!
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