How to write a medical blog and not get fired

I have covered the topic before but there is a new example of a sensible approach to medical blogging.

Kevin, MD linked to the blog Boston EMT which was the subject of an article in Boston Globe. Kevin wondered if the Boston EMT's employer was aware of the blog and the question was answered in the comments by the blog author himself:

"Yes, my employer, Boston EMS, has seen the blog. The Chief of Department has seen it, and, in fact, he has given reporters permission to interview me and write about the blog. In fact, two high-ranking members of the department have participated in it, by telling stories of their own in the form of comments left on the site.

Consent to write the blog was given on two conditions: (1) That I make clear that my views do not necessarily reflect those of the city or of Boston EMS, and (2) that I adhere to the privacy requirements of HIPAA.

I've been careful to do both."

This is one of the "right ways" to do medical blogging.

Tips for Medical Bloggers

- Write as if your boss and your patients are reading your blog every day
- Comply with HIPAA
- Anonymous blogging  may not last long. Consider using your name and credentials on your blog and other social media accounts
- If your blog is work-related, it is probably better to let your employer know.
- Inquire if there are any blogging guidelines. If there are, comply with them strictly.
- Use a disclaimer, e.g. " All opinions expressed here are those of their authors and not of their employer. Information provided here is for medical education only. It is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice."
- Get your blog accredited by the Heath on the Net Foundation


This Google video shows that it takes about 2 minutes to start a blog on Blogger.com. Creating a web site has never been easier.

References:
Simply Fired - How NOT to Blog About Your Job. Especially If You Are a Doctor. Clinical Cases and Images - Blog, 08/2005.
Dr Flea Blogged His Malpractice Trial, Settles When Outed. Clinical Cases and Images - Blog, 05/2007.
Anonymous Medical Blogger? Not Anymore. Clinical Cases and Images - Blog, 02/2007.

Related:
How to blog - and keep your job. BBC, 2006.
Twitter, HIPAA, Privacy and Freedom of Speech. Phil Baumann, 07/2008.
When Blogging Gets You Fired. David Bradley, 2009.
On blogging. DB’s Medical Rants, 2009.

As A Busy Physician, Why Do I Even Bother Blogging? http://goo.gl/fSF3 - Excellent summary.