Social Media and Patient Privacy: Think Before You Post

Social media helps people to share their lives and build community, and it's important that we always protect patient privacy and uphold HIPAA regulations.

Key reminders about using social media as a health care professional:

• HIPAA applies to all workforce members, regardless of role or intent.
• Specific written patient authorization is required before sharing any patient-related information or images.
• Photos taken for treatment or care may never be shared on social media.
• “Private” accounts do not eliminate accountability.

Follow the guidance below to avoid risking your job, your license, or getting fined. 

Before posting work-related material, consider:

• Could a patient be identified?
• Was this created for care purposes only?
• Do I have written authorization?

If there’s any doubt, don’t post.

Visit the Privacy hub for additional details about protecting patient privacy online, as well as real-world examples and decision aids. Then, take a quiz about what you have read and a chance to win a gift card.