Physician, Monitor Thyself: Professionalism and Accountability in the Use of Social Media

Abstract

The recent report of the AMA Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs (CEJA), "Professionalism in the Use of Social Media," describes the types of social media medical professionals use, outlines ways in which existing AMA policies address issues of online professionalism, and makes a list of recommendations for physicians to maintain online professionalism. CEJA recommends directed efforts towards educating physicians about the benefits and pitfalls of social media and, in particular, underscores the difficulties of maintaining professional boundaries in the digital age. In this commentary, we highlight issues introduced by the report and suggest some specific ways that the recommendations of the committee can be implemented by medical schools, residency programs, and practicing physicians.