Electronic Spring 2023 | Issue 54
Privacy Matters on Social Media
By: Christina Girgis
Social media has become an integral part of our lives and it is no surprise that our privacy is often at risk when using these platforms. With so much of our personal data being shared and stored on social media, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that exist. It is also an important tool for physicians to stay connected with their patients, colleagues, and the medical community. However, there are risks associated with using social media that physicians must be aware of to ensure their patients' privacy is protected.
As a physician, patients trust you with their most personal and sensitive information. It is therefore your responsibility to protect their privacy and maintain their trust. With the rise of social media, however, it can be easy to accidentally breach that trust by sharing information that should remain confidential.
Here are some tips to help you maintain patient privacy while using social media:
Don’t share identifiable patient’s personal health information, or PHI. This might seem obvious, but it’s important to remember that even seemingly innocuous details can be used to identify a patient. While PHI typically refers to name, birthdate, and social security number, you should avoid sharing any information that could link a patient to a particular diagnosis, treatment, or outcome.
Maintain professional boundaries: it’s okay to be friendly and personable with patients but be careful not to blur the lines between professional and personal relationships. Avoid friending or following patients on social media and be sure to only add people you know and trust, as they may be able to access your information. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the privacy settings on your social media accounts and set them to the level of privacy you would like.
Use secure channels for communications: Social media platforms are not secure channels for communicating sensitive medical information. Instead use secure messaging or email systems that comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA regulations.
Be mindful of your online presence: even if you’re not actively sharing patient information, your online presence can still impact patient trust. Be mindful of what you post on social media and avoid sharing anything that could be seen as unprofessional or offensive.
Stay up-to-date on privacy laws and regulations: privacy laws and regulations are constantly evolving, so it is important to stay current on the latest developments. In addition to taking the time to be aware of HIPAA, if you work for a large system or organization, make sure you know and follow their social media policy or guidelines
By following these tips, you can help protect your patients’ privacy and maintain their trust while still enjoying the benefits of social media and staying connected with friends and colleagues. Remember, as a physician you have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, both in-person and online.