Ethical Considerations Regarding Internet Searches for Patient Information

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Psychiatry
• Digital Health

Background:

• Professional organizations have addressed social media professionalism but lacked specific guidelines for online patient searches.
• Existing American Psychiatric Association (APA) guidance on Internet searches is limited.
• A resource document was developed to address ethical considerations for psychiatrists using Internet and social media searches for patient information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline ethical considerations for psychiatrists conducting Internet and social media searches for patient information.
• To provide guidance on the appropriate use of online searches in psychiatric practice.

Main Methods:

• Development of a resource document by the APA Ethics Committee.
• Adaptation of the resource document into an article for broader dissemination.

Main Results:

• Recommends obtaining informed patient consent before conducting searches, except in emergencies.
• Emphasizes the need for psychiatrists to examine their motivations and ensure searches benefit the patient.
• Stresses the importance of handling obtained information with sensitivity to patient privacy and the clinician-patient relationship.

Conclusions:

• Online searches for patient information require careful ethical consideration and should prioritize patient well-being and privacy.
• Psychiatrists must be mindful of how these searches impact the therapeutic alliance.
• Information from online searches can be valuable in forensic evaluations when interpreted cautiously.