Social Media Use, Beliefs, and Training Among Residents and Medical Students in Ob/Gyn [11O]

INTRODUCTION: To describe social media use, beliefs about appropriate use, and training from programs and institutions among residents in obstetrics and gynecology and students entering the profession. METHODS: A 28-question, anonymous, online survey was distributed throughout the country to current OB/GYN residents and 4th year Medical students who matched in the specialty. RESULTS: Most participants (96.5%) were between the ages of 25-34 and 86.8% were female. Social media usage included Facebook (90%), Instagram (55.2%), and Snapchat (32.4%). Only 5.5% report no use of social media. While the majority check their social media outlets at least once a day (66.9%), a majority post only 1-2 times per month (56.3%). Wide variation existed in beliefs about appropriate types of postings. 97% of respondents reported being tagged in a patient post. A majority of residents reported receiving social media training from their institutions (70%) or programs (56%), but most did not know whether a formal policy existed. Only 35% were aware of the ACOG Committee Opinion on social media, but only 8% had read it. Likewise, only 17% were aware of the relevant ACOG training video, and 5% had viewed it. CONCLUSION: Conclusion(s): Social media use and online patient contact is ubiquitous among residents and medical students, while awareness of formal policies is not common. A diversity of opinion around appropriateness of posts exists. Given potential issues with patient privacy protection and liability issues, training in social media use should become part of residency training.