By Robert Irving Miller, R.N., M.S., J.D.
Nurses, physicians and other health professionals can face serious professional and legal consequences from improper use of social media. The most common violations involve breaches of patient privacy and confidentiality, especially under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Even posts that do not mention a patient’s name can violate privacy laws if the individual can be identified through context, photos, or timing. Such conduct can result in termination of employment, civil fines, and disciplinary action by state licensing boards, including suspension or revocation of a professional license.
Improper social media use can also constitute unprofessional conduct or a breach of employer policy. This includes posting inappropriate, discriminatory, or offensive material; discussing workplace issues in public forums; or making disparaging comments about patients, colleagues, or employers. Many healthcare facilities have strict social media policies, and violating them can lead to immediate termination. Additionally, giving medical advice online or using one’s professional title inappropriately can create conflicts of interest or misrepresentation, raising ethical and regulatory concerns.
Beyond these direct risks, social media misuse can have lasting effects on a professional’s career. Disciplinary findings often become public and are reportable to other licensing jurisdictions and the National Practitioner Data Bank, potentially affecting future employment and credentialing. To protect themselves, healthcare professionals should avoid posting any work-related or patient information, follow employer policies, and maintain clear boundaries between personal and professional online activity.
Here is a link to an excellent brochure on this subject from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing:
