Physiotherapists must communicate with patients, those in their professional environment and the public respectfully, honestly, and professionally. This also applies to online communication, including social media.
A review of the recent case law shows that while healthcare providers have a constitutionally protected right to freedom of expression, this right is subject to limits. Even when PTs are posting in a private capacity, the post can be subject to regulatory action if there is a negative impact on the profession or the public. When considering whether social media posts are appropriate, a regulator will analyze and consider several factors. The regulator must also consider the substance of the posts, such as if they contain misinformation, offensive language, or do not contribute to public discourse.
Some factors that a regulator will consider when doing a contextual analysis of a registrant’s social media activity include:
- If there is a connection between the conduct and the practice of the profession that demonstrated a sufficiently negative impact on the profession or the public interest
- Whether the individual identifies themselves as a healthcare provider
- An analysis of the substance of the message:
- Tone, content or purpose
- Whether statements made are true or fair
- Does it contribute to public discourse about an issue
- Its impact on the reputation of the profession
- Does it contain misinformation, offensive language, or does not contribute to public discourse
- The extent of the publication and the size and nature of the audience
- Whether the posts are in breach of College standards