July 2023

The Double-Edged Sword: Social Media and the Doctor’s Dilemma with Dr. Garret Pachtinger, DACVECC

By Dr. Garret Pachtinger, VMD, DACVECC, Director of Operations / Co-Founder, VETgirl

I opened my Yahoo News Feed today and saw this highlighted article, ‘Dr. Roxy’, the plastic surgeon who livestreamed procedures on TikTok, banned from practicing medicine in Ohio.

Immediately I thought…this can impact not only “Real Doctors” (controversial joke for us NON-Real Doctors…) but it can impact those in veterinary medicine too!

So I set out to write an article on “The Double-Edged Sword: Social Media and the Doctor’s Dilemma”

So here goes…

In the digital age, social media has transformed the way we communicate, connect, and share information. While it offers numerous benefits, the rise of social media platforms has also raised concerns, especially for professionals like doctors. In this blog, we will explore the unique challenges that doctors face in the realm of social media and shed light on the potential pitfalls and ethical considerations they must navigate.

Privacy and Patient Confidentiality:
Maintaining patient confidentiality is a cornerstone of medical ethics, and social media poses significant challenges in this regard. Doctors must be cautious not to disclose any sensitive patient information or violate privacy laws. Even seemingly innocent posts or comments can inadvertently reveal details that compromise patient confidentiality, leading to potential legal and ethical consequences.

Blurred Professional Boundaries:
Social media blurs the line between a doctor’s personal and professional life. Doctors must be aware of how their online presence can impact their reputation and the trust patients place in them. Engaging in unprofessional or controversial behavior online can erode the public’s perception of a doctor’s competence and professionalism. It’s crucial for physicians to establish clear boundaries between their personal and professional personas on social media platforms.

Misinformation and Online Health Advice:
The internet is awash with health information, but not all of it is reliable. Social media platforms often become breeding grounds for misinformation and pseudoscience, which can spread rapidly. Doctors have a responsibility to counteract misinformation by providing accurate, evidence-based information. However, the vastness of social media makes it challenging to reach a wide audience and correct misleading health claims effectively.

Emotional Toll and Burnout:
Social media can be a double-edged sword when it comes to the emotional well-being of doctors. While it provides opportunities for connection and support, it can also be a source of stress and negativity. Doctors may face online harassment, be subjected to negative reviews or comments, or even encounter patients seeking medical advice outside of appropriate channels. Constant exposure to these pressures can contribute to burnout and adversely affect the mental health of physicians.

Maintaining Professionalism and Boundaries Online:
Navigating social media as a doctor requires maintaining a delicate balance between being relatable and professional. Doctors must be mindful of their online behavior, ensuring they adhere to professional codes of conduct and avoid engaging in controversial discussions or unbecoming behavior. The challenge lies in presenting a human side while maintaining the integrity and professionalism expected of a medical practitioner.

Conclusion:
Social media has revolutionized communication and networking, offering doctors new avenues to engage with patients and share valuable health information. However, it is not without risks and challenges. Doctors must approach social media with caution, emphasizing privacy, patient confidentiality, and professionalism. It is essential for medical professionals to strike a delicate balance, leveraging the benefits of social media while mitigating its potential negative impact. By understanding the concerns associated with social media and adopting responsible online practices, doctors can navigate this digital landscape while upholding the highest standards of patient care and professionalism.

BUT – here’s the thing. I didn’t actually write this article. ChatGPT did!

How do you feel about that? Does this make social media and the internet even more dangerous for veterinary professionals or the general public?

Dr. Garret Pachtinger, DACVECC
Co-Founder, Director of Operations, VETgirl

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