Model Policy for Maintaining Professionalism While Using Social Media

The Federation for State Medical Boards (FSMB) has released guidelines highlighting the appropriate use of social media and social networking websites for physicians and other health care professionals. FSMB’s Model Policy Guidelines focus on the importance of an appropriate physician-patient relationship and the professional and ethical standards that should be followed throughout the medical profession.

A 2011 study reported that 87 percent of physicians use a social media website for personal use and 67 percent use it for professional purposes.  While social media has enormous potential for both physicians and their patients, the benefits must occur within the proper framework of professional ethics.  These guidelines address physicians’ concerns about social media, provide examples of proper social media physician-patient relationships, and provide information about social media policy.

MSNJ understands the importance of social media guidelines and is currently developing guidelines for its members.