Informal online opinions: Medico-legal considerations in new and social media

Abstract

Background Doctors are increasingly discovering that using social media, both via public platforms and closed forums, is a powerful tool to develop a professional presence, share information and network with colleagues. While new technology can open up opportunities to engage, educate and inform, it is important also to recognise that doctors' legal and professional obligations apply equally online. Objective The aim of this article is to raise awareness of and share information about legal and professional obligations when using social media, particularly in the context of seeking peer professional advice or informal input from colleagues. Discussion While doctors' legal and professional obligations continue to apply online, the technology can create additional complexities. Being aware of these complexities will assist doctors to optimise their use of social media while still complying with those obligations.