Social media in advancing equity and collaboration in rheumatology: the CORDIALITY review

Abstract

Social media has transformed communication in academia and medicine, offering stakeholders innovative avenues for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The CORDIALITY review (soCial media fOR aDvancing equIty And coLlaboration In rheumaTologY) examines the impact of social media on education and information dissemination, patient education and empowerment, networking and mentorship, and research collaboration within rheumatology, when effectively used. In this narrative review, we consider the opportunities as well as the challenges related to each of these facets of social media use. With a focus on inequities faced globally, we give particular consideration to disparities by gender as they relate to the rheumatology workforce, and issues pertaining to lower-income and middle-income countries such as limitations of digital access and digital literacy. To maximise the potential of social media in rheumatology, we propose a strategic framework that encourages innovation, responsible practices and support from rheumatology organisations.

Keywords: Epidemiology; Patient Care Team; Patient Reported Outcome Measures; Social Media.