Social media in ophthalmology: An analysis of use in the professional sphere

Abstract

To characterize how ophthalmologists are using social media in their practice. A survey regarding ophthalmologists’ personal and professional use of social media was distributed online through a university alumni listserv. Data collection occurred over 4 weeks from January to February 2020. In total, 808 ophthalmologists opened the survey email, and 160 responded (19.8%). Of 160 respondents, 115 (71.9%) participated in social media for personal use. Professional use of social media was noted by 63 (39.4%) respondents. Age >40 years old correlated with less personal ( X2 = 5.06, p = 0.025) but not professional use ( p = 0.065). Private practice was associated with more use of social media professionally compared to those in an academic or Veteran’s Affairs hospital ( X2 = 6.58, p = 0.037). A majority of respondents (58.7%) were neutral regarding the effect of social media on their practice. The present survey showed that nearly 40% of respondents are involved in social media in a professional context. Private practice correlated with increased use of social media professionally, but providers were most commonly neutral regarding the impact of social media on their practice. This finding suggests further avenues of research including how providers using social media professionally are defining and assessing successful use.

Self-Reported Social Media Use among Ophthalmology Residents

“…11 In contrast, there was no significant difference in the rates of professional social media use between trainees and attending ophthalmologists. 10 Many professional accounts are often run by social media managers or by the institutions employing ophthalmologists, which may influence this finding. 10 Additionally, the perceived Fig.…”

Does social media have a place in ophthalmology practice?

“…3 Patients were identified as the target population of social media pages among 34.9% of the ophthalmologists surveyed, while both patients and other professionals were the target for an additional 55.6% of respondents. 4 Clarke et al analyzed Lasik surgery Instagram and Twitter posts by patients using the hashtag #lasiksurgery. The investigators found that 92% of patients posted photographs, 88% had a positive tone, 62% referenced the clinic at which they were treated, and 44% posted during the day of the procedure.…”

“…For example, platforms were used to send instructions and appointment reminders to post-operative cataract patients. 4 In one study, investigators found that messaging patients regarding post-operative instructions after cataract surgery led to better medication compliance at one week, 6 though this effect was lost at the one-month mark. Overall, social media may be leveraged in the future alongside email and medical record messaging applications to more effectively reach patients.…”

“…First, concerns regarding patient privacy laws are a main reason for limited use by ophthalmologists. 4 Medical professionals often fear violating HIPAA conduct when posting photos of patients. 2018 AAO recommendations regarding the use of social media and professionalism have been published for providers.…”

“…Al-khersan et al's study found that 31.25% of respondents who reported not using social media for professional purposes indicated that it was too time-consuming. 4 4. Suggestions for getting started on social media a.)…”