Ethical and professional use of social media: Consensus of Italian Dermatologists active on social media.

Abstract

Background: Social media has transformed medical communication, providing dermatologists with opportunities for public education, professional visibility, and patient engagement. However, ethical and professional concerns arise due to the lack of dermatology-specific guidelines in Italy. While the National Federation of Orders of Physicians and Dentists (FNOMCeO) offers general recommendations, no targeted framework exists to regulate dermatologists' digital presence.

Methods: During the 32nd Annual AIDA Congress in May 2024, a working group of 23 dermatologists with active online engagement was formed. Existing ethical frameworks, including the Code of Medical Ethics, were reviewed to identify regulatory gaps. A core team drafted 12 statements, which were refined through a structured discussion and a vote to reach consensus.

Results: The working group developed 12 best practice statements covering key aspects of ethical online engagement, including responsible social media use, conflict-of-interest disclosures, adherence to scientific evidence, patient privacy, and the fight against misinformation. These statements establish clear principles to guide dermatologists in their digital communication.

Conclusions: This is the first dermatology-specific digital communication consensus in Italy, addressing an urgent need for ethical regulation. These recommendations provide a structured framework for dermatologists, ensuring responsible online engagement while maximizing public health impact. Further regulatory efforts are essential to maintain high professional and ethical standards in the digital era.