This week in class we discussed the implications that social media can have on the patient- client relationship. This included how a provider can best protect their privacy, how to maintain professional conduct in the eye of social media, patients rights in regards to social media, and some guidance on how to react to friend requests on social media from a patient. Some of the guidelines for social media use include: follow standard privacy and confidentiality practices, maintain appropriate boundaries and be aware of information out on the internet about you (via things like self-searches), establish clear expectations about online communication (this is often done through things similar to contracts and consent forms), and discuss all of the previous mentioned things as a part of the consent process.
This chapter made a lot of important points which I had not previously considered. Since entering college I have erred on the side of caution when posting to social media platforms, especially Facebook, as many more companies are checking applicants online profiles before making a hiring decision. However, I had never considered that the things I have posted in the past, post currently, or will post in the future can be accessed by patients which I may one day treat. Additionally, I had also never considered the idea of clients looking up there therapists, psychiatrists, etc. on their personal social media. Of course from a consumer standpoint it makes sense for patients to be curious about the experience of their doctor's or physicians, but I think that searching for their personal profiles on social media platforms takes this a little too far.
An article posted on the APA's website which I have attached below suggests that it is not ethical to look at your clients social media accounts unless they have given you permission to do so, However, it should be noted that this article was published in 2010 and at the time they concluded more research should be done. I feel as if this is advisable information and that clinicians must always err on the side of caution to maintain a professional relationship with their client, and do their best to protect their own privacy on social media platforms.
http://www.apa.org/gradpsych/features/2010/client-searches.aspx
I agree that we must pay closer attention to the posts we make on social media. I have been part of a hiring committee within the facility I work for three years. When it came down to choosing between two applicants, my supervisor would always browse their social media accounts. So yes I think we must be very cautious in these situations.
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