This commentary focuses on the need for health care workers to be social media leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social media has several benefits, especially for frontline health care workers. The use of social media allows for the timely dissemination of new information to these vital workers who can then use the information to communicate with patients and other laypeople. Additionally, social media allows health care providers and systems to identify trends and prepare for surges. Even with these benefits, it is important to recognize the limitations of social media as well. For example, the massive amount of information available on social media creates difficulty in filtering information. It also allows for significant influencers to spread information rapidly, regardless of its accuracy. Because social media is being used more now than ever before, it is essential for health care providers to be leaders not only on the front lines of the crisis but also in social media.