Social Media PolicyTrillium Plastic Surgery

June 6th, 2012

The internet and social media are changing the way medicine is practiced. If you're reading this, then you and I are on the forefront of that change.

However, at the core of the practice of medicine is the doctor-patient relationship, which is arguably the most sacred and trusting relationships two relative strangers can place themselves in. You, the patient, are vulnerable and exposed. I understand and respect that you have placed your trust in me to solve whatever problem or cure whatever ailment you bring to me. The gravity of this bond is not lost on me; indeed, it is the very heart of the practice of medicine and a large part of why I chose to do what I do.

That being said, it is currently impossible to build that relationship over the internet. For those of you who share that doctor-patient relationship with me already, communication over the internet isn't "secure" enough for us to discuss your past or current medical issues. Those statements do not reflect my own feelings - they are the thoughts of the US Government. I enjoy my freedom and want to spend my non-working time with my family, not in jail. So, while those of us in medicine with an interest in social media are working to change the status quo, I have no choice but to obey the current laws as they are written.

Thus:

The purpose of all my social media communication - including this blog, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and any others - is for medical education only and is not intended to be nor does it substitute for medical advice. Posts here are to inform and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure disease. Information presented here or any other of my social media outlets is meant to support the relationship that already exists between you and your current physician and is not intended to be the sole source of medical decision-making for you our your family.

If you like what you read or have a personal medical issue you'd like to discuss, call the office and schedule a Knoxville Plastic Surgery appointment with me. I'll be honored you chose me as your physician.