Current as of: 4 October 2024
Social Media Manager: Practice Manager & Administration Manager

Introduction

This policy provides guidance for staff members of West Cessnock Medical Practice on the appropriate use of social media. It aims to mitigate risks associated with social media while promoting a positive online presence for our practice.

Definition of Social Media

For the purposes of this policy, “social media” refers to online platforms that facilitate social interaction and the sharing of information. This includes, but is not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other similar platforms.

Purpose of the Policy

The primary purpose of this policy is to outline best practice guidelines for using social media, ensuring that all staff are aware of their responsibilities and the potential risks involved. Regardless of whether social media is used for business-related or personal activities, adherence to this policy is mandatory.

Background and Rationale

Our practice utilises social media to:

• Engage with patients and the community.
• Share health information and updates about our services.
• Foster a positive and professional image of the practice.

Staff are legally responsible for their online content and may face disciplinary action, including termination of employment, if found in breach of this policy.

Policy Application

This social media policy applies to all employees of West Cessnock Medical Practice. It does not apply to patients or individuals not employed by the practice.

Policy Guidelines

Expectations for Staff Use of Social Media: When using social media, staff are expected to:

• Avoid posting material that is:
  • Unlawful, threatening, defamatory, or pornographic.
  • Offensive, inflammatory, or could harm the practice’s reputation.
  • Confidential, including patient information or non-public business details.
• Not use social media for unsolicited commercial messages or to solicit users for products or services.
• Not impersonate another individual or entity.
• Not make unauthorized changes to the practice’s social media accounts.
• Not transmit viruses or harmful content through social media.

Personal Social Media Use: Staff may engage in personal social media outside of work hours, provided that their actions do not bring the practice into disrepute. Personal posts should not imply they represent the practice, nor should they disclose any confidential information.

Approval Process

All posts on official practice social media accounts must be approved by the Social Media Manager prior to publication. This ensures that content is appropriate and aligned with our practice’s values and standards.

Monitoring and Management

The Social Media Manager is responsible for managing and monitoring our practice’s social media channels. In their absence, a designated staff member will assume these responsibilities.

Rules and Regulations

All staff must comply with relevant laws and industry regulations when using social media, including privacy legislation and the AHPRA national law regarding testimonials.

Brand Management

Content posted on behalf of the practice should maintain a professional tone, using clear and respectful language. Staff are expected to represent the practice positively and to adhere to our branding guidelines.

Breach of Policy

Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Policy Review Statement

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains current with changes in social media practices and relevant legislation. Updates will be communicated to all staff.