Social Media Policy

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Purpose
Social-media offers valuable opportunities for collaboration, education, and communication. However, it also poses risks related to professionalism, confidentiality, and reputation management. This policy provides clear guidance for students of Xavier University, including those enrolled in the MD, Veterinary Medicine, Pre-Med, and Nursing programs, to use social media responsibly in alignment with the ethical standards of their respective professions and the values of the university.

Scope
This policy applies to all Xavier University students- Med, Veterinary, Premed and Nursing, and covers all online platforms, including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, WhatsApp, TikTok, blogs, forums, and professional networks.

General Principles

  1. Professionalism
    • Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of professionalism on all social media platforms.
    • Content shared online must align with the principles outlined in relevant professional guidelines such as but not limited to, the American Medical Association Code of Medical Ethics and the Medical Council of Canada Professional Expectations for Physicians and Learners, American Veterinary Medical Association and American Nurses Association.
  2. Confidentiality
    • All patient or client-related information, whether anonymized or not, is strictly confidential and must never be disclosed online. This includes human patients and veterinary clients.
    • This policy aligns with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and similar privacy standards globally.
  3. Integrity and Respect
    • Students must communicate respectfully and avoid any language or content that could be interpreted as discriminatory, harassing, defamatory, or otherwise harmful.
  4. University Representation
    • The use of XU’s name, logo, or imagery on personal social media accounts must be pre-approved. Students must not imply that their personal views are endorsed by the university.

Prohibited Activities

  1. Fake Accounts and Fraudulent Representation
    • Students are strictly prohibited from creating or managing fake social media accounts that misrepresent or impersonate Xavier University.
    • Any such cases will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent applicable by law.
    • Students found guilty of creating fake accounts will be responsible for all associated costs of the investigation, including legal fees.
  2. False and Disparaging Remarks
    • Students are strictly prohibited from using social media to spread false information or make disparaging remarks about XU’s board, faculty, clinical preceptors, or staff.
    • Such actions are considered severe violations of this policy and may result in disciplinary measures.
  3. Patient Information
    • Sharing any information, photos, or case details from clinical or veterinary settings is strictly prohibited, even if patient or client identifiers are removed.
  4. Unprofessional Content
    • Posting offensive material, participating in heated online arguments, or sharing misinformation is not permitted.
  5. Academic Dishonesty
    • Do not share exam questions, answers, or other academic materials online.
  6. Unauthorized Use of University Branding
    • Using XU’s logo or other official materials for personal purposes without permission is prohibited.

Guidelines for Social Media Use

  1. Educational and Professional Content
    • Social media can be used to share academic achievements, engage in medical education, and participate in professional discussions.
    • Cite credible sources when sharing medical information, ensuring compliance with evidence-based practices.
  2. Personal and Professional Boundaries
    • Maintain separate personal and professional accounts to avoid conflicts of interest.
    • Avoid friending or following patients on personal social media accounts to maintain professional boundaries.
  3. Privacy Settings
    • Regularly review and update privacy settings to control the visibility of your content.
    • Be aware that "private" posts can still become public through screenshots or sharing by others.
  4. Avoidance of Plagiarism
    • Always credit original authors when sharing articles, graphics, or other media.

Enforcement and Disciplinary Action

Violations of this policy will be addressed through the following steps:

  • Investigation: The university will investigate reported violations.
  • Disciplinary Measures: Depending on the severity of the violation, consequences may include:
    • Formal warnings or reprimands.
    • Probation, suspension, or dismissal from the academic program.
    • Reporting violations to medical licensing or professional organizations.
    • Legal action in cases involving fake accounts or false and disparaging remarks.

Students found responsible for violations requiring legal action will bear the full costs of investigations, including legal fees.

References to Professional Guidelines

This policy is informed by and aligned with the following professional guidelines:

  1. American Medical Association (AMA):
    • Code of Medical Ethics on Social Media Use
  2. Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA):
  3. Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB):
  4. World Medical Association (WMA):
  5. American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN):
  6. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA):
  7. Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA):
  8. Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC):

Acknowledgment of Policy

By enrolling in any program at Xavier University: MD, Veterinary Medicine, Pre-Med, or Nursing, students acknowledge and accept the terms outlined in this Social Media Policy. It is the responsibility of each student to familiarize themselves with these guidelines and ensure their adherence. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, as detailed above.

Policy contact

Dean of Student Affairs, Xavier University, Aruba

Updated: 16 Jan 2025