Pharmacy and Social Media

Sometimes, when we strive together towards a common goal, we may still find something to be lacking on a day to day basis. A sense of community. This can definitely be felt amongst the corporate companies. It is my biggest fear and regret that eventually, the same will come to be said for pharmacy. However, I can honestly say that recently, I have come across evidence that would prove the contrary to be true.

Let me take you back to me in first year -  an unsure, sceptical pharmacy student paving her path in an unknown field. I wanted to connect, to discover and share. The most suitable platform to me at the time seemed to be online blogging. But as I started, a heavy sense of doubt descended on me. It was not the familiar telling signs of fear when placed before a “blank sheet” of paper. It was something utterly different. Ethics and practice, a module that we had come to cover at university,  had raised many concerns in my mind. I was taught that being a student pharmacist meant a stark distinction to any other degrees in science - you are an accountable,  representative for the face of the profession. And herein lies the core concern. As a student pharmacist would I be judged by content? What were my restrictions? What could I post? Was I allowed to take a side in a debate, or was I forced to remain impartial and portray myself as an objective professional in the eyes of the public?

It was years before my worries were put to rest. This year many would be glad to know that the newest edition of the Medicines, Ethics and Practice sets out the guidelines regarding this matter for both practising and student pharmacists. For me this was the perfect example of indispensable, forward thinking and was reflecting the current advancing state of affairs in pharmacy. With everything moving to digital platforms it made logical sense to publish such a guide. For that I must thank the MEP writers! The quality and timing could not have been better.

To summarise what the guidelines said:

It’s important to recognise the necessity that those using social media uphold the same standards as in “real-world interactions”. The issues that were covered under the umbrella of social media included maintaining confidentiality, ensuring online activity does not tarnish the reputation of the profession, showing respect and not undermining professional boundaries. But most fitting for me, I thought was the parting message. When teaching or providing information ensure that it is impartial, accurate and that you do not mislead or make claims that you cannot justify.

This applies to any pharmacist who interacts online via blogpost, web forums, facebook, twitter or any other social networking. This guidance will ensure that we all do so in the best way to serve the public and fellow pharmacists. So let’s continue to unite as a community, in sharing our experiences, furthering healthcare advancement and learning from others.  

Let me know if agree with me in the comments below. Thank you for reading!