Evaluating the satisfaction and utility of social networks in medical practice and continuing medical education

Abstract

Abstract Background Digital health has surged during the Covid health crisis, and the use of social media, already prevalent in medicine, has significantly increased. There are Social Networks groups dedicated to physicians with an educational purpose. These groups also facilitate peer discussions on medical questions and the sharing of training materials. Objectives The aim of our study was to assess the value of these new tools and their contribution to medical education. Methods An anonymous questionnaire was conducted among members of a Social Networks community group for physicians. The survey received responses from 1451 participants. Results The majority of participants believed they had enriched their medical knowledge and accessed documents they would not have accessed without the group. Subgroup analysis showed that the contribution of this tool is more pronounced for general practitioners and doctors practicing in limited healthcare access. Conclusion It is essential to develop digital tools that enhance physician training, and social networks represent a valuable educational tool.

Keywords

• Social network
• Continuing medical education
• General practitioners