Rationale:
The Code of Professional Behavior applies when communicating via various media that include, but are not limited to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other established or emerging media sites.
Scope and Accountability:
All students enrolled at KSOM
Procedures:
Students who are training to become physicians are expected to act in a professional manner at all times (see KSOM Code of Professional Behavior). Students’ social media profiles reflect upon them, KSOM, Keck Medicine of USC, and the University of Southern California.
Students using social media are expected to demonstrate a level of maturity and civility that is consistent with the AMA Code of Medical Ethics: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/ama-code-medical-ethics
Social media communication must never contain information that includes a patient identifier (names, photographs) or any other personal health information. Students must never take photographs or videos in a clinical setting for the purposes of social media distribution. All photography or videography in a clinical setting must comply with the institution’s policies.
If a student acknowledges their relationship with the KSOM or any affiliated clinical site on a social media account, they shall include disclaimers advising that they are not speaking on behalf of these entities. Students will not misrepresent themselves or their level of training, nor will they offer medical advice. In social media posts or interactions where a student can be reasonably perceived as associated with the KSOM, the student is expected to meet the expectations of the Code of Professional Behavior.
Students in violation of this guideline may be referred to the Student Performance Committee.
Communication must be accurate and consistent with the KSOM Code of Professional Behavior and the University of Southern California and policies of affiliated clinical sites.
Students cannot be compelled to disclose their user name, password, or other social media information, or be required to access their social media in the presence of university/KSOM officials.
Reviewed and Approved: May 23, 2021
Medical Education Executive Council
Related Policies and Forms:
KSOM Code of Professional Behavior
LAC+USC Medical Center Social Media Policy