GMC seeks views on doctors' use of social media

The General Medical Council is seeking views on new draft guidance which sets out what is expected from doctors when they are using social media.

The GMC say the standards expected of doctors do not change because they are communicating through social media rather than face to face, phone or email.

The social media guidance is part of a consultation on a suite of explanatory guidance which includes revisions of existing documents as well as new material.

Explanatory guidance expands on the principles set out in the GMC’s core document Good Medical Practice, which is also undergoing an extensive review in 2012.

Commenting on the draft social media guidance Niall Dickson, Chief Executive of the General Medical Council said:

‘Online communication has become a key part of every doctor’s personal and professional life, and the use of social media is now very common. These newer forms of communication can be incredibly useful but it is important that the standards of behaviour and respect for others which are expected from doctors in the ‘real’ world are also observed online.’

Mr Dickson added:

‘Our guidance is designed to reflect what is expected of doctors by their patients, the profession and the wider public. That is why we are asking for comments to ensure this latest set of guidance reflects what doctors, patients and others feel is of value.

‘We are keen to hear from anyone with an interest in any of the matters covered.’

New guidance

Social media for doctors sets out the appropriate use of social media channels like Facebook and Twitter.

A new set of Delegation and referral guidance has been produced to be significantly shorter in response to the request from doctors for more concise advice.

Taking up and turning down appointments has been updated to offer more detail on how doctors should accept and terminate posts.

Revisions of existing guidance

Personal beliefs addresses under what circumstances it might be appropriate for a doctor to talk about their own personal beliefs and how to handle their own conscientious objection to providing a specific treatment or procedure.

Maintaining boundaries focuses on professional boundaries between a doctor and patient, reporting inappropriate behaviour about a colleague and the role of a chaperone during intimate examinations.

Financial and commercial arrangements and conflicts of interest looks at how a doctor should approach commissioning services, incentives and gifts in their practice to ensure any dealings do not affect the way they treat, refer or prescribe for patients.

Ending your professional relationships with a patient sets out when this is appropriate and how doctors should handle these situations.

Acting as a witness in legal proceedings explains the expectations of a doctor when they are a witness in legal procedures.

Reporting criminal and regulatory proceedings within and outside the UK expands on advice in GMP about the requirements of a doctor to report any criminal and regulatory history.

To take part in the GMC’s consultation, visit www.gmc-uk.org/gmp2012. It runs until 13 June 2012.