RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Ethical Considerations in Pediatricians’ Use of Social Media
JF Pediatrics
JO Pediatrics
FD American Academy of Pediatrics
SP e2020049685
DO 10.1542/peds.2020-049685
VO 147
IS 3
A1 Macauley, Robert
A1 Elster, Nanette
A1 Fanaroff, Jonathan M.
A1 ,
YR 2021
UL http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/147/3/e2020049685.abstract
AB Increasing use of social media by patients and clinicians creates opportunities as well as dilemmas for pediatricians, who must recognize the inherent ethical and legal complexity of these communication platforms and maintain professionalism in all contexts. Social media can be a useful tool in the practice of medicine by educating both physicians and patients, expanding access to health care, identifying high-risk behaviors, contributing to research, promoting networking and online support, enhancing advocacy, and nurturing professional compassion. At the same time, there are confidentiality, privacy, professionalism, and boundary issues that need to be considered whenever potential interactions occur between physicians and patients via social media. This clinical report is designed to assist pediatricians in identifying and navigating ethical issues to harness the opportunities and avoid the pitfalls of social media.