Is the growing trend of medical students becoming Instagram influencers and guiding others through social media a justified extension of their role, or is it diverting them from their primary goal of becoming competent healthcare professionals?
What’s your take?
Medical students becoming influencers can be beneficial for health awareness. However, it may distract from studies and compromise academic performance.
There’s a risk of spreading misinformation or oversimplifying complex topics. Professional boundaries may blur, impacting future relationships.
Social media can promote public health education if done responsibly. Medical students should prioritize studies over social media. Credible information sharing can be valuable.
Developing communication skills is an added benefit. Balance between social media engagement and academic focus is crucial. Responsible social media use can enhance their professional growth.
It’s a tricky balance. While guiding others can be great, excessive focus on influencing might divert precious time from core medical learning.
The primary goal must always be becoming a competent, ethical professional. It’s a fine line
I mean why not if our knowledge can be monetised
I think if we use it righteous way… Like
Awareness of disease
Prevalence of certain disease
Cause and cure
Then it’s useful a lot… But the moment fame comes out…and brand collaboration and all … There will be shif of the content from patients oriented to fame oriented… Then that’s what is wrong…
Healthcare professionals should focus on educating and treating patients, as well as raising public awareness about diseases and prevention. Utilizing social media can help them reach a larger audience effectively.
Media should be used wisely regardless of your profession. Medical students can touch upon creating videos on topics like awareness of medical emergency situations, disease prevention strategies, etc. Guiding the public with any medical advice through the media is not a good idea and sometimes it will end up in distrust. Media also consumes your valuable time.