Physicians and Patients Who 'Friend' or 'Tweet:' Constructing a Legal Framework for Social Networking in a Highly Regulated Domain

Terry, Nicolas

Abstract

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Physicians and Patients Who 'Friend' or 'Tweet:' Constructing a Legal Framework for Social Networking in a Highly Regulated Domain

Nicolas Terry

Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law

Indiana Law Review, Vol. 43, No. 285, 2010
Saint Louis U. Legal Studies Research Paper No. 2010-01

Abstract:
Social networks connect intimates, friends, and acquaintances that share history, strangers who share interests, or businesses and the customers they serve. This article explores how participation in online social networks blurs the boundaries between personal and professional relationships or commentary, while making available 'private' information in what only appears to be a secluded area. These issues are explored within the framework of the highly regulated health domain, casting doubts on the appropriateness of some professional activities and identifying considerable risks for patients and their health-related information.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 59

Keywords: privacy, HIPAA, confidentiality, malpractice, social network

JEL Classification: K13, K32, K30

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Date posted: July 29, 2009 ; Last revised: February 20, 2012

Suggested Citation

Terry, Nicolas P., Physicians and Patients Who 'Friend' or 'Tweet:' Constructing a Legal Framework for Social Networking in a Highly Regulated Domain. Indiana Law Review, Vol. 43, No. 285, 2010; Saint Louis U. Legal Studies Research Paper No. 2010-01. Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1440813

Contact Information

Nicolas P. Terry (Contact Author)

Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law ( email )

530 W. New York St
Indianapolis, IN 46202
United States