The Benefits of Social Media in Healthcare Essay

The Benefits of Social Media in Healthcare Essay

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In today’s technology-based society, we enjoy easy access to myriad sources of digital communication and information. However, along with this resource comes great responsibility which is privacy. As nurses navigate social networking sites sometimes unknowingly approach a dangerously thin line between professional and personal online etiquette and even run the risk of violating patient privacy. Inappropriate use of social media can cause serious lawsuits.
Social media is also expanding into different areas related to health. For example, PatientsLikeMe (2014) is a newly created service that allows patients to monitor their disease, treatments, and self-reported experiences. The social component allows users to share information with other patients that have the same medical condition, as well as with health researchers and healthcare providers. There are a growing number of sites for health and healthcare related purposes, such as tracking health measures, rating healthcare providers, and hospital services (Fox & Duggan, 2013b). Social media is being used by people across the healthcare system, so it is prudent to discuss the benefits, risks, and best practices for social media amongst nurses.The Benefits of Social Media in Healthcare Essay