Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (KPCOM)—Osteopathic Medicine Program 2023–2024 165 J. Social Media Guidelines KPCOM recognizes that online social networking has become an increasingly important means of facilitating communication. While social networking has provided unique opportunities to interact, it has also created a forum for potential issues for future osteopathic physicians. As professionals bound by social contracts and professional and ethical obligations, osteopathic medical students must be cognizant of the public nature of social networking forums and the permanent nature of postings therein. Even though these sites offer terrific potential to bolster communication with friends and colleagues, they may also serve as a forum for lapses of professionalism and professional behavior that may be freely visible by many people, despite the impression of privacy these sites portray. As a result, KPCOM has drafted the following guidelines to aid students in the safe and responsible usage of these sites. The following section outlines best practice guidelines for student doctors at KPCOM during their medical school training. They apply to all students who participate in social networking sites, online weblogs, or any other forms of online communications and interactions. Students should follow these guidelines whether participating in social networks personally or professionally; whether they are participating in social networking or any other form of online communication on-site at NSU or off-site; or whether they are using personal technology or technological resources owned or operated by NSU or KPCOM. Online Social Networking: A Brief Definition A social networking site is a place on the Internet where users can create a profile and connect that profile to others (whether it be individuals or entities) to establish a personal or professional network. Examples include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. A weblog, or a “blog,” is a website, usually in the form of an online journal, maintained by an individual or group, with regular commentary on any number of subjects which may incorporate text, audio, video clips, and any other types of media. Potential Consequences of Online Unprofessional Behavior The permanence and written nature of online postings may cause them to be subject to higher levels of scrutiny than many other forms of communication. Therefore, postings made on social networking sites are subject to the same standards of professionalism as any other personal or professional interaction and will be treated as if made in a public forum. Postings made on social networking sites can have educational ramifications. Conduct that violates university policies or procedures may result in disciplinary action. The use of social networking sites or weblogs can also have legal ramifications. Comments made regarding the care of patients, or that portray you or a colleague in an unprofessional manner, may be used in court as evidence of a variety of claims (including, but not limited to, libel, slander, defamation of character, negligence, and others) or in other disciplinary proceedings (e.g., state medical licensing boards). Other potential consequences include the revocation of a residency selection, or sanctions by a professional licensing board. Also, the statements and media posted within these sites are potentially viewable by program directors, future employers, and patients or clients. It is not uncommon for program directors to search for the social networking profiles of potential residents and to use the discovered information in making selection decisions.
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