Differences in attitudes of medical and dental students about e-professionalism on social media

Abstract

Abstract Background Since the use of social media (SM) has increased among health professionals, it is necessary to explore students’ use of SM. Aim of this study was to recognize the patterns of SM use and difference in attitudes about e-professionalism on SM among medical and dental students. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out in the School of Medicine University of Zagreb and the School of Dental Medicine University of Zagreb in academic year 2018/2019. Data were collected using online questionnaires. Data were analysed by descriptive statistics. Results A total of 698 responses were received, 411 from second and fifth year medical students (RR 69%), and 287 from first to sixth year dental students (RR 68%). Facebook was the most commonly used SM platform (99%), followed by Instagram (81%) and YouTube (72%). Dental students significantly more accepted friend requests from patients (28% vs 6%, P < 0.001), sent friend requests to patients (5% vs 1%, P = 0.002) and significantly more plan to use SM in interaction with patients (39% vs 16%, P < 0.001). Attitudes regarding what should be considered as unprofessional online behaviour significantly differed regarding posting patient photographs (90% medical vs 61% dental students, P < 0.001), posting interactions with unidentifiable patients (42% medical vs 23% dental students, P < 0.001) and inappropriate language use (72% medical vs 83% dental students, P < 0.001). Students would find useful existence of guidelines about e-professionalism (84% medical vs 90% dental students, P = 0.016). Conclusions Results showed that dental students are more open to communicating with patients using SM. Results showed difference in attitudes among medical and dental students what constitutes unprofessional behaviour on SM. Results indicate the need to develop guidelines for students regarding e-professionalism. Key messages The difference exists in attitudes among medical and dental students what constitutes unprofessional behaviour on SM. There is a need to develop guidelines for students regarding e-professionalism.