Creating a Physician Blog

A physician blog is very helpful in advancing the career and in sharing the knowledge of any healthcare provider. In creating a physician blog though, one has to be very cautious of what he will be posting about. There had been many cases where more negative issues arose involving a physician blog.

Privacy and Confidentiality

In a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, an estimate of 270 physician blogs were compared and contrasted. 57% of the blogs gave away information that exposed the identities of the authors, 42% described patients in, 17% had positive patient descriptions, 18% had negative patient portrayals, 16% had a lot of information that enabled readers to distinguish themselves, and 11% advertised and marketed health products.

These entire percentages amount to one thing and it is the issue of confidentiality. The physician blogs that became the subjects of the study revealed a lot of information that should have been kept in confidence and that the author should have been keen and responsible about. So if you are thinking of creating a physician blog, this matter should be the foremost thing that should be prioritized.

Pieces of Medical Blogging Advice

In writing a physician blog, one has to be always aware that once an entry is published, it will be able to the browsing public. One must always put to mind that the patients and colleagues could be reading the blog. Thus said, an author of a physician blog must always respect the privacy of others in order to get out of trouble’s way.

It is also a good thing to avoid posting entries about humiliating experiences, both to you, to your colleagues, and most especially to your patients. You might assume your identity under a pseudonym, but with careful reading, it is possible that you will be unmasked. It will also be best if you inform your employer about your physician blog to avoid complications in the future and to be able to follow any blogging guidelines, if any.

Speaking of compliance, study the guidelines provided by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, and go with it strictly. Also have it authorized by the Health on the Net Foundation. Finally, put a visible disclaimer in your blog so that readers can further understand the intentions of the blog.

Blogging and Beyond

You might be tempted to post in social networking media sites the link to your blog. If you have this intention, consider updating your profile in these sites first before allowing your networks to view the websites. This is because social networks are filled with trash talk that can be detrimental to your reputation as a physician. Some people might be disturbed to find out what your profile contains, so check this out first and edit out the unwanted details before you proceeding.

Physicians are held by the society at a high standing. It is in this light why a physician blog must be full attention when it is maintained. Besides, giving your blog a professional attitude can contribute to your career growth.