Social media in ophthalmology: An analysis of use in the professional sphere.

Abstract

To characterize how ophthalmologists are using social media in their practice. A survey regarding ophthalmologists' personal and professional use of social media was distributed online through a university alumni listserv. Data collection occurred over 4 weeks from January to February 2020. In total, 808 ophthalmologists opened the survey email, and 160 responded (19.8%). Of 160 respondents, 115 (71.9%) participated in social media for personal use. Professional use of social media was noted by 63 (39.4%) respondents. Age >40 years old correlated with less personal (X2 = 5.06, p = 0.025) but not professional use (p = 0.065). Private practice was associated with more use of social media professionally compared to those in an academic or Veteran's Affairs hospital (X2 = 6.58, p = 0.037). A majority of respondents (58.7%) were neutral regarding the effect of social media on their practice. The present survey showed that nearly 40% of respondents are involved in social media in a professional context. Private practice correlated with increased use of social media professionally, but providers were most commonly neutral regarding the impact of social media on their practice. This finding suggests further avenues of research including how providers using social media professionally are defining and assessing successful use.