Revolutionizing Healthcare in the COVID-19 Era: Physicians Are Successfully Embracing Social Media to Replace Traditional Face-to-face Contact

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has restricted face-to-face communication. Social media groups have emerged as a tool for knowledge sharing and problem-solving. However, the unfiltered information exchange can present a dilemma. This study examines the role of a private Facebook group managed by physicians from the same class in the Alexandria Faculty of Medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. It employs a mixed-methods approach, combining content analysis of group posts and responses with an electronic survey of group members. The content analysis of 185 posts reveals that the majority (89.2%) were problem-related, with logistic help requests and clinical questions being the most common types representing 41% and 37%, respectively. Vaccine-related inquiries (11%) and posts seeking specialist responses to laboratory or radiological investigations (11%) were also present. The analysis further demonstrates that 89.7% of problem-related posts received specific replies, addressing the raised requirements, indicating an engaged and supportive community. Moreover, 0.6% of posts received psychological support or wishes for rapid recovery. Of the problem-related posts, 84.2% were successfully solved, contributing to preliminary diagnosis, referral, prescription, or logistical assistance. The electronic survey measuring member satisfaction shows that the majority (76.4%) of participants reported being satisfied with the group’s services, with high satisfaction rates regarding reply speed, quality of replies, problem resolution, and meeting expectations. Physician social media groups facilitated knowledge exchange, problem-solving, and peer support during the COVID-19 pandemic in Egypt. Future research can explore the long-term impact of these groups on clinical outcomes and physician well-being.