From Bench to Bytes: Utility of Social Media Platforms by Pathology Residents.

Background: The rise of virtual media has expanded to various fields and the medical profession has not been immune to its influence. The purpose of our study was to analyse and evaluate the impact of virtual social networks, on the professional growth and career progression of Pathology residents.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was undertaken at the section of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi. An online, questionnaire based on google forms was sent via WhatsApp application to the Pathology residents (n = 30) from July to August 2023. The anonymity of the participants was maintained. The statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2019.

Results: A total of 25 (83%) Pathology residents participated in the survey. 72% of the participants were females and 28% were males. Chemical Pathology residents constituted the largest proportion at 44%, followed by 24% from Hematology, 24% from Microbiology and 8% from Histopathology. 60% of the trainees acknowledged using social media platforms routinely for professional development. The most used social media platforms were YouTube (48%), Twitter (36%), Facebook (12%) and Instagram (4%). Social media network was perceived the most useful in increasing understanding regarding the profession (60%), strengthening the proficiency in problem-solving (56%) and enhancing critical thinking abilities (52%) whereas it was regarded as somewhat useful in enhancing clinical/professional decision-making skills (52%) and clinical expertise (60%).

Conclusion: Social media is gaining popularity in the realm of medicine and this survey reveals the perspective of Pathology residents on the social media networks and its growing impact on their professional growth.