Social media in Rheumatology

Kunal Chandwar MD, DM
Consultant Rheumatologist, Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad
@ERheumat @kunalchandwar

How did you get the idea to start an online educational platform (on X)?

The idea to start an online educational platform on X (formerly Twitter) for rheumatology came during the COVID-19 pandemic. X’s real-time updates highlighted its potential for rapid medical knowledge dissemination. This inspired me to create a dedicated channel focused on rheumatology education, benefiting others and enhancing my knowledge.

X’s character limit necessitated concise, focused summaries of studies and conference key points, making the information digestible and accessible. This created a personal digital repository of the latest developments in rheumatology, helping me stay current and providing a valuable resource for others.

Role of social media in increasing subject knowledge for healthcare professionals

Social media is a powerful tool for healthcare professionals to stay current. It provides real-time updates on research, guidelines, and clinical developments, enabling professionals to adapt their practices promptly.
Platforms like Twitter and Facebook facilitate case-based learning and virtual journal clubs, fostering evidence-based practice.
Brief clinical tips and visual content consolidate learning and improve recall.
Engaging in professional debates and connecting with global professionals enriches understanding.
Live streaming of webinars and conferences enhances access to educational material.

How is social media useful in promoting our research work and professional growth?

Social media accelerates every stage of the research process, from conception to dissemination, while expanding professional networks.
It exposes researchers to diverse abstracts, presentations, and discussions, sparking new research questions. It facilitates global collaborations, breaking down geographical and language barriers.
Researchers can share key findings, reaching a broader audience. Higher social media attention accelerates research dissemination and recognition within the scientific community.
Moreover, social media can help researchers identify gaps in current knowledge, fostering innovative approaches to address complex research questions. Engagement with peers through online forums and discussions can provide valuable feedback and insights, refining research methodologies and interpretations.

How to use social media to increase awareness among the general public?

Social media can improve public understanding of health and disease, reduce anxieties, and provide emotional support.
Patients can connect with others suffering from similar conditions, offering valuable advice. However, not all information on social media is reliable. Misinformation can lead to poor health decisions and increased anxiety. It is crucial to rely on credible sources and be cautious about sharing personal health information due to privacy concerns.
Additionally, social media can be used to promote health campaigns and public health initiatives, reaching a wider audience quickly and effectively. However, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming, making it difficult to discern what is relevant and accurate.

What are the best and easiest methods to share knowledge on social media

The best method to share knowledge depends on the target audience.
Short video clips or Reels on YouTube and Instagram engage younger audiences.
For professionals, Twitter (X) posts like Tweetorials, journal clubs, polls, and clinical pearls, along with infographics, are effective.
Patient support groups are often better engaged through WhatsApp and Facebook. Ensuring the information is reliable, authentic, decluttered, engaging, and tailored to the audience enhances engagement and impact.
Utilizing hashtags and engaging with relevant communities can increase the visibility of shared content. Consistency in posting and interacting with followers also builds a loyal audience, ensuring that the knowledge shared is valuable and impactful.