The social (media) side to rheumatology

Abstract

A revolution is underway in the fields of education and health practice. Social media are now considered by the new generations of students, doctors and patients as a useful tool for learning and for doctor-doctor, doctor-patient and patient-patient communications. However, should we be excited by this revolution or afraid of it? Advantages and challenges of such new tools for medicine in general and rheumatology in particular are discussed in this Perspectives.

Social media use among young rheumatologists and basic scientists: results of an international survey by the Emerging EULAR Network (EMEUNET)

“…Previously, traditional means of professional communication such as telephone calls, fax and post have been replaced by the emergence of quicker and more interactive online methods of communication 2. Aside from empowering participants to contribute content and develop online communities,3 4 SM platforms can be used to support clinically relevant discussions and information-sharing eliminating geographical barriers while bringing people closer together 5…”

Social media: the next frontier in radiology

“…However, radiologists cannot afford to ignore the importance of social media in a world where most of generation Y access social media multiple times per day. 3 Social media will be an important and integral part of the professional lives of tomorrow's generation of consultant radiologists; thus, we need to consider its influence and impact today.…”

“…3 This can include online forums, e.g., Doctors.net; microblogging platforms, e.g., Twitter; social networking sites, e.g., Facebook; and content communities such as Youtube. The idea of online professional networks is well established within business where members across the world use Linkedin to publicize their work, network with industry colleagues, and meet recruiters.…”

Preferences for Disease‐Related Education and Support Among Younger People With Hip or Knee Osteoarthritis

“…To date, there has been little research into the use of social networking sites for health by age group . While social media might improve access to self‐management tools and enable people with arthritis to choose how they interact , a published review concluded that research into social media and chronic disease management is still in its infancy . Recently, a systematic review and meta‐analysis found that social networking sites (including Facebook pages, health‐specific sites, and Twitter) were effective in improving health behaviors, although none of the included studies involved people with OA .…”