Professionalism
The GMC has produced an
audio-cast - on professionalism.
'When you begin your studies at medical school you are not just
learning how to do a job, you are preparing to join a profession.
In addition to learning about the scientific basis of medicine and
how to perform a range of practical procedures, you also need to
learn about the professional aspects of becoming a doctor.'
Information
for Medical Students, GMC Website
The BMA guidelines on Social Media
In 2011 the BMA published
practical and ethical guidelines on using social media.
'The popularity of social media has
grown rapidly in recent years. There is widespread use of sites
suchas Facebook and Twitter amongst medical students and doctors
and there are a growing number of well-established blogs and
internet forums that are aimed specifically at medical
professionals, such as doctors.net.uk and the BMJ’s doc2doc.
While many medical professionals use
social media without encountering any difficulties, media interest
and research into examples of unprofessional behaviour online have
raised concerns that some doctors and medical students may be
unknowingly exposing themselves to risk in the way they are using
these ‘web 2.0’ applications and uploading personal material onto
the internet. Although medical professionals should be free to take
advantage of the many personal and professional benefits that
social media can offer, it is important that they are aware of the
potential risks involved.'
Using social media:
practical and ethical guidance for doctors and medical students,
BMA Website