Ten Stupid Things Doctors Do on Social Media

Abstract

This article reviews 10 common mistakes physicians make when posting comments and videos on social media platforms such as Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Posting poor-quality information and information that is unscientific, unreliable, or racially and ethnically divisive should always be avoided. Substances banned or unapproved by the FDA or that violate DEA prescribing guidelines should not be marketed though social media channels. Livestreamed medical procedures should have educational value and protect patient privacy. Above all, users of social media should be thoroughly familiar with the functionality of the various platforms. Physicians’ missteps have resulted in imprisonment, revocation of medical licensure, fines, and personal and institutional reputational damage.