Your social media feed is perfectly curated for you, so when you encounter a doctor who addresses your concerns perfectly, how can you resist? But here’s the issue — anyone can claim to be a doctor online.
Social media is a great place for information right at your fingertips, but you should be wary of misinformation. Here’s how to verify online doctors to ensure you get legit advice.
1. Check Their Credentials
Make sure you can find your influencer’s full name and be cautious of vague titles or nicknames. A quick Google search of the social media “doctor” may help you verify their credentials, board certifications, and state licenses to ensure you’re getting an official opinion. Claims from “medical students” especially should be verified by certified medical professionals.
2. Listen for Evidence, Not Opinion
Does the doctor provide sources? Or do they simply offer a vague, “studies suggest…” without naming the research? Even when they provide the study, it’s crucial to verify it for yourself to avoid false claims. Unfortunately, 67% of adults struggle to discern social media information as true or false, so it’s crucial to dig deeper than what is presented on-screen.
3. Beware of Sponsorships
Social media marketing is an effective way to promote brands, especially by using authority figures with large followings to endorse a product or service. Sometimes, sponsored content isn’t labeled and can be challenging to spot. Pay attention to whether the influencer is endorsing a specific product rather than a general solution.
4. Note Community Engagement
Many influencers seek engagement to get views, clicks, and revenue. “Clickbait” and “rage bait” can overtake legitimate sources by spurring engagement through anger or shock. Take note of how the original poster presents information and engages with comments. Do they try to answer questions genuinely or respond with sarcasm? Do they block or delete negative comments or engage to encourage dialogue? Doctors with good intentions would likely aim to disseminate information, not spread misinformation.
5. Look for Verification
Even though your algorithm serves you personally-curated content, you still hold the power of research. A Google search to verify this influencer’s claims can be your saving grace. Use reputable sources, such as the Mayo Clinic, CDC, and notable .gov or .edu sites, which can verify medical claims. It may be untrustworthy if you can’t immediately find the information in the post.
What red flags should you be aware of?
Beyond advice that may do more harm than good for your individual health needs, people become more susceptible to scams and misinformation from these illegitimate sources, which can then be exploited through cybersecurity attacks. Proper education can help prevent cybersecurity risks, as 95% of data breaches are often caused by human error.
Fake doctors online can have serious, long-lasting effects on public health. As a media consumer, you have a responsibility to verify claims online. Follow the steps above to vet the claims you see, and keep the following red flags in mind.
1. One-Size-Fits-All Solutions
If a doctor prescribes a general solution that “works for everyone” or doesn’t offer caveats, the solution may not be trustworthy. Try to discern exactly what the solution targets, who the intended audience might be, and look for real-life case studies of people who have tried it.
2. Looks-Based Solutions
Always be cautious of advice that targets aesthetics over actual health. Beauty trends come and go, so determine if the “cure” is a current trend or if it has proven long-term health benefits. Examples include anti-aging “remedies” that are purely cosmetic and weight loss or gain “solutions” that only seek visible results.
3. Fear Mongering and FOMO Tactics
Rhetoric like “everyone is doing this” or even starting videos by asking “did you know” can elicit a fear of missing out or even spark concern. Influencers and marketers exploit this primal response to deceive viewers into believing their authority. The response is natural, so being cognizant of this trick can help you be privy to its effects.
4. Contradictory or Secret Advice
More often than not, there is no “secret” to medical advice. It’s a well-researched field, and plenty of information is already out there. Be especially cautious of advice against well-established practices, such as vaccinations and over-the-counter medications, that have undergone extensive research and proven benefits.
There is a wealth of valuable information at your fingertips, and social media offers incredible accessibility to healthcare. However, it’s necessary to ensure your medical advice comes from a professional who has your best interests in mind. Opt for verification and make smart decisions for yourself and your health.
