The impact of medical misinformation | eMedEvents
Over the past two decades, social media has become one of the most popular ways for internet users to locate and share health information . This presents a unique opportunity for healthcare professionals and organizations where they can broaden their reach when it comes to improving healthcare literacy, self-efficacy, and treatment compliance among patients; therefore, many solo practitioners and institutions alike have incorporated social media into their daily businesses as a means of disseminating medical information regarding topics such as healthy habits and disease prevention. However, the sheer accessibility of social media has also opened the door for previously-unimaginable social and health issues. While there is a definite value to using these platforms to promote accurate healthcare information, new research suggests that false or misleading information can spread as quickly—if not quicker—than facts. Now, more than ever, healthcare professionals are facing the far-reachin