Personal reflections on exploring social media in medicine

Abstract

Social media is difficult to explain to a physician who has never used it. The medical literature on its pitfalls and abuses has overshadowed its positive applications and made many physicians wary of it. While I was initially reluctant to develop my own presence on social media, since embracing it as a tool for teaching and learning I have developed a different perspective. I see it as a tool that can be used positively or negatively. Much like a megaphone, it can amplify our voice so that the impact of our work can extend beyond the borders of our institutions and countries. Aided by the guidance and support of mentors who used social media before and alongside me, it has helped me to become a more competent, professional, engaged, and impactful physician. Within this article I will share my story to illustrate the many ways that social media can be used to enhance the profession of medicine.

Acknowledgements

The author would like to acknowledge Teresa Chan and Rob Woods for providing feedback on this manuscript.

Declaration of interest: The author reports no conflicts of interest. Brent Thoma was responsible for the conception, design, analysis, interpretation, drafting, revision, and final content of the submitted article.