How to Behave on Social Media? NMC Releases 11 Commandments for Doctors

New Delhi: Doctors will have to refrain from buying likes, and followers on social media as well as posting patient "success stories", the recent set of guidelines issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) under the National Medical Commission Registered Medical Practitioner RMP (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023 have pointed out.

The social media guidelines, issued for the first time for Indian doctors, lay down 11 important points to govern the conduct of doctors on social media.

Keeping the rising use of social media in mind, the apex medical regulator has laid down the rules for conduct by doctors on ruch platform. "The broader principle of medical ethics should guide the use of social media by RMPs," the guidelines further note.

" All written and visual communication should be truthful, respectful, and professional," the regulations further add.

7. RMPs should refrain from sharing images of healed/cured patients, or surgery/procedure videos or images displaying impressive results under any circumstances.

8. RMP is allowed to share educative material for the information of the general public. However, communication should be limited to the expertise of the RMP.

9. RMP’s webpage should also follow the same guidelines as above.

10 On social media, RMPs should refrain from boundary crossings or violations and conduct themselves with dignity and decorum.

11. Soliciting of patients directly or indirectly through social media is unethical.