Networking
As mentioned above, platforms such as #GITwitter and #LiverTwitter have become popular forums for engaging and connecting with like minded colleagues. Social media provides a space to share ideas and build collaborations with colleagues working on similar projects. The concept “#Twitter2Paper” has been proposed which signifies an idea that generated on Twitter and was eventually converted to a manuscript.5
Institutional, divisional, and practice promotion
Social media is a great tool to showcase the clinical, educational and scholarship services and efforts by programs, practices or divisions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment efforts at all stages were mainly shifted to virtual platforms, and social media was an instrumental way for programs to highlight their culture and initiatives. Prospective applicants can often refer to social media to get a better understanding of what the program offers. Similarly, if a new clinical service is being provided, targeted efforts can be made to ensure that patients are aware of the available services.
Patient education and combating misinformation
Several gastroenterologists also use social media to spread awareness regarding GI diseases. Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are effective mediums where one can reach a wider audience. It is important for gastroenterologists to provide accurate information since there is a sea of misinformation available on the internet as well. Posts regarding colonoscopy and colon cancer awareness can help alleviate myths regarding role of colonoscopy. In addition, patient advocates use social media to provide peer support to others who deal with challenges related to chronic illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Sharing your work
Sharing your work on social media can help your work reach a broader audience. Studies have shown that work shared on social media has higher altmetric scores and can also lead to increased citations.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Social media offers a platform where one can promote or showcase their support for causes they believe in. The hashtag “#DiversityinGI” has been instrumental in promoting causes pertaining to diversity and inclusion in GI.
Pitfalls
As gastroenterologists continue to use social media, it is important to be mindful of potential pitfalls. The most critical aspect is to always remember that no post should intentionally or unintentionally violate HIPAA. It is advisable to know your institutional and state social media policies.
Social media is beaming with knowledge, education, science and inspiration. There are endless opportunities for professional and personal growth with effective and responsible use of social media. Its never to late to join the conversation.
Dr. Bilal is an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis and an advanced endoscopist in the division of gastroenterology at Minneapolis VA Medical Center. He has no relevant conflicts of interest to disclose.
References
1. Mikolajczyk AE et al. Hepatol Commun. 2020 Jul 5;4(8):1229-33.
2. Bilal M and Oxentenko AS. Am J Gastroenterol. 2020 Oct;115(10):1549-52.
3. Breu AC. N Engl J Med. 2019 Sep 19;381(12):1097-8.
4. Bilal M et al. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021 Aug;18(8):519-20.
5. Pawlak KM et al. United European Gastroenterol J. 2021 Feb;9(1):129-32.
