Social Media and Professional Development for Oncology Professionals

Abstract

The use of social media continues to increase in health care and academia. Health care practice, particularly the oncologic field, is constantly changing because of new knowledge, evidence-based research, clinical trials, and government policies. Therefore, oncology trainees and professionals continue to strive to stay up-to-date with practice guidelines, research, and skills. Although social media as an educational and professional development tool is no longer completely new to medicine and has been embraced, it is still under-researched in terms of various outcomes. Social media plays several key roles in professional development and academic advancement. We reviewed the literature to evaluate how social media can be used for professional development and academic promotion of oncology professionals.

Understanding Modern Medical Centers: Beyond Simone—Intersectional Maxims for a New Era

“…Encourage connection via social media 59 Use professional societies and meetings for networking 59 Introduce and foster cross-institutional mentorships Mentorship should be a tapestry 43 Mentors and mentees should be from different backgrounds, identities, and institutions Should include being an ally 41 Should include creating sponsorship opportunities Consider coaching as a contractual or programmatic offering for all 42 Leaders should proactively look for programmatic opportunities to support physicians in varying situations tremendous leeway in a case of sexual harassment, showcasing how institutions may prioritize money and prestige over morality or law. Harassment in the medical workplace leads to increased workplace turnover.…”

Exploring the Attitudes of Medical Students Towards Social Media and E-professionalism in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia

“…Irrespective of educational background, clinical status, or place of practice, healthcare providers can connect through social media. This provides the opportunity for individuals to exchange their knowledge and experiences and the chance to cooperate in solving rare and unusual cases [ 12 ].…”

Quality of content reporting on two major oncology media websites: OncLive and Targeted Oncology

“…Few practicing physicians may have the time, expertise, or interest to read the primary literature in depth. As such, oncology news outlets fill an important gap; these forms of data dissemination play an important role in informing physicians of new advances, and may also shape the narrative around new trials and treatments [2]. These news websites may not be subject to the same peer review or editorial standards as medical journals, but may have advantages such as presenting succinct, relevant, and accessible information to physicians and patients.…”