Doctors and healthcare professionals are increasingly being reminded: what you post online — even in a personal capacity — can come back to haunt your professional life. The digital realm is not a separate playground; it’s a continuation of your public and professional identity.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and medical boards are paying closer attention than ever before. Posts, tweets, comments, or blogs that seem inappropriate, misleading, or unprofessional can land clinicians in hot water, potentially putting their registration at risk.
Common Online Mistakes That Have Prompted AHPRA Action:
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Venting about patients or colleagues (even if anonymised)
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Sharing clinical stories without consent, even in private groups
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Endorsing unproven or controversial treatments
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Posting discriminatory remarks, even casually
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Promoting health products or services in ways that breach advertising guidelines
Even liking or resharing problematic content can be interpreted as endorsement.
Protecting Your Professional Identity Online
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Pause before you post. Would you be comfortable if your employer or a patient read it?
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Separate accounts? Still be cautious. Personal posts can still be scrutinised.
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Be careful when commenting in forums. Stay factual, evidence-based, and respectful.
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Stay updated. Review AHPRA’s social media and advertising guidelines regularly.
At Synexa Web Design, we help medical professionals establish online presences that not only showcase their expertise but also stay compliant with regulatory expectations. Our tailored websites and blog setups ensure your digital footprint reflects the same care and professionalism you bring to your patients.
Final Thought
The best rule of thumb? Assume every post will be seen by a patient or board. Thoughtful, ethical online behaviour reinforces trust and protects your registration.
Adapted from an article published by Healthed Australia, May 2025: https://www.healthed.com.au/clinical_articles/online-mistakes-that-could-put-your-registration-at-risk/