Social media in interventional radiology

Abstract

Introduction Social media provides opportunities for Interventional Radiologists to share research, communicate with colleagues, provide health information and advertise their clinical practice. This study aims to examine the online and social media presence of currently practicing Australian Interventional Radiologists. Methods Systematic Google searches were undertaken in May 2019 and updated in May 2020 to identify practicing Interventional Radiologists in Australia. Comprehensive searches of practice websites and social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, ResearchGate, YouTube) were undertaken for each Interventional Radiologist. Results There were 265 Interventional Radiologists identified as currently practising in Australia, including 209 Interventional Radiologists (excluding Interventional Neuroradiologists), 49 Interventional Neuroradiologists and 7 that practise across both Interventional Radiology and Interventional Neuroradiology. 72% of Interventional Radiologists had at least one social media account, with LinkedIn the most widely used social media platform (60%). There was a significant negative correlation between the total number of social media accounts and years in practice (P = 0.04). Across the states, a higher population per IR was positively correlated with a higher average number of social media accounts per IR (P = 0.04). Interventional Neuroradiologists had a significantly higher average number of social media accounts compared to Interventional Radiologists (1.94 vs 1.29, P < 0.01). Conclusions Most Australian Interventional Radiologists have a readily identifiable social media presence. There is potential for further utilisation of social media for academic, educational and business purposes.

Surveying the Landscape of Social Media Usage for Health Care by Otolaryngology Patients

“…Social media is now ubiquitous in society and its applications to health care continue to develop and grow 9,11–13 . Despite this, there remains a paucity of information in the otolaryngology literature regarding the social media habits of our patient population.…”

“…Social media is now ubiquitous in society and its applications to health care continue to develop and grow. 9,[11][12][13] Despite this, there remains a paucity of information in the otolaryngology literature regarding the social media habits of our patient population. Among the medical community, there have been some investigations; a study on inflammatory bowel disease patients demonstrated that high-frequency social media users agreed that it played a significant role in managing their condition, demonstrating a utility for those with chronic conditions.…”

The Role of Twitter in Radiology Medical Education and Research: A Review of Current Practices and Drawbacks

“…This outreach will inevitably contribute to and stimulate interest in IR. [52][53][54][55] Senior medical students have even written a letter on the need for increased IR exposure in medical school, and suggested Twitter as a potential vehicle. 56 The Society of Interventional Radiology has encouraged Twitter use, in particular with regards to its annual meeting to allow members to connect with each other during these large gatherings.…”