Professionalism in the Digital Era: The Changing Role and Challenges Faced by Doctors on Social Media

Abstract

Awareness about the use of social media is important for the medical fraternity. This is applicable not only for doctors who are active users, but also those who seldom use social media. This article is the summary of a panel discussion at ISG Indian Society of Gastroenterology Kerala State Conference 23 September 2023. The destructive power of social media is exemplified in the near-demise of deceased organ donation in the state of Kerala. There are strategies to counter misinformation, and professional societies have to take note of some of these responsibilities that go beyond organising scientific conferences of academic content. The National Medical Commission has laid out guidelines about the dignified conduct of those in the medical profession on social media, awareness about which is vital for those using such tools to reach out to their patients. Defamation, fake ID and financial frauds are a few of the complications that could happen to anyone on social media.