Utilization and Impact of Social Media in Hand Surgeon Practices. (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garofolo, Garret; Akinleye, Sheriff D.; Golan, Elan J.; Choueka, Jack
• Is Part Of: Hand. Volume 15:Number 1(2020)
• Page Start: 75
• Page End: 80
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: social media -- online patient ratings -- patient satisfaction -- physician-rating websites -- digital identity; Hand -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Hand -- Surgery; Periodicals; 617.57005
• DOI: 10.1177/1558944718787285
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1558-9447

Abstract

Background: Social media is an effective tool to enhance reputation and brand recognition and is being used by more than 40% of patients when selecting a physician. This study aimed to evaluate the use of social media in hand surgeon practices, and to assess the impact that one's social media presence has on physician-rating website scores (PRWs).Methods: Randomly selected hand surgeons from across the United States were identified. Sequential searches were performed using the physicians name + the respective social media platform (Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, personal website, group website). A comprehensive social media utilization index (SMI) was created for each surgeon. Utilizing descriptive statistics, we assessed the effect of social media on the PRW.Results: A total of 116 board-certified hand surgeons were included in our study. The sample identified 10.3% of the population used Facebook, 1.7% used Twitter, 25.8% used YouTube, 22.4% used LinkedIn, 27.5% used a personal website, and 36.2% used a group website, 0% used Instagram. The average SMI was 1.53 ± 1.42 (0-6). Physicians with a personal website received higher Healthgrades scores than those without one ( P < .05). Analysis of SMI demonstrated that hand surgeons with an index less than 3 received lower Healthgrades scores compared to those with an SMI above 3 ( P < .001).Conclusion: Hand surgeons underutilize social media platforms in their practice. A personal website is single most important social media platform to improve HealthGrades score in hand surgeons.