Social media for medical professionals

e-learning

Many medical professionals are active on social media. When used properly, social media can be an excellent way to interact with colleagues. But unfortunately, mistakes can happen (such as inappropriate comments or photos) that could damage your reputation.

This e-learning includes fictional scenarios based on common queries and concerns we receive from members. It can help you to use social media in a way that will limit its damaging pitfalls. We cover:

  • communication with patients and colleagues
  • marketing yourself using social media
  • relevant legal and ethical obligations.

Course aim

This course can help medical professionals and medical students maximise the benefits of using social media and appreciate its pitfalls while continuing to meet ethical and legal obligations.

Learning objectives

By the end of this course you should:

  • be able to identify and evaluate patient confidentiality hazards associated with online media and know how to avoid them
  • understand how to uphold professional boundaries with patients
  • understand the GMC guidance that applies when using social media, including how to promote your practice effectively and ethically
  • know when and how to respond to online criticism.

Not a member yet?

Find out more about the benefits of membership and how to join so you can access our e-learning.

Shabbir Choudhury

Dr Shabbir Choudhury

Senior medical claims handler

MBBS, DRCOG, DFFP, MRCGP, MA

Shabbir graduated from St George's University of London in 2002, qualifying as a GP in 2007. In 2010, he completed his MA in Medical Ethics and Law at King's College London. Shabbir continued to practice as a GP, and teach primary care ethics, until he joined the MDU in 2014. His main interest is the law and ethics of good Samaritanism.

Comments

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  • Mr Elshaikh
  • 12 October 2022 2:56PM

good

  • Dr Hanci
  • 5 November 2020 9:29PM

Very helpful! I enjoyed it very much.

  • Dr Ambadipudi
  • 15 June 2020 2:18PM

Very useful for the current times.

  • Dr GEERTHAN
  • 10 November 2019 4:54PM

good one

  • Anonymous
  • 31 July 2019 4:06PM

Helpful. Many Doctors are falling prey to the pitfalls of social media.

  • Anonymous
  • 31 July 2019 4:05PM

I found the Social Media Course very useful, especially with cases to work through. We need to ensure our knowledge is kept up-to-date in our expanding use of digital services environment and be aware of the GMC guidance and other information available such as "The CAP Code". We are very keen to ensure we are following best guidance whilst we expand our use of new areas of technology and follow best guidance when using social media.