Doctor or influencer? Experts urge caution over online health advice

The session, “The Doctor or the Influencer... Who Do We Believe?”, held as part of the Arab Social Media Pioneers Summit, highlighted the impact of medical content circulating on social media platforms on public awareness and health decisions. The discussion came amid a growing presence of content creators and an increasing number of information sources. Speakers also addressed the challenges surrounding the accuracy and reliability of information, as well as the professional and ethical responsibility for its dissemination. The session featured Dr. Anwar Al Hammadi, Consultant Dermatologist; Dr. Talal Al Muhaisen, Consultant Dermatologist; Dr. Munther Al-Harini, physician and content creator; and media director Aya Khayat. The speakers discussed ways to distinguish reliable medical information from misleading content. They also examined the role of doctors and influencers in providing health content that combines scientific accuracy with the ability to reach and influence audiences. Dr. Anwar Al Hammadi stressed the importance of doctors being influential and effective in the digital space without becoming marketers. Dr. Talal Al Muhaisen said non-health influencers have become more visible than doctors on social media platforms. He attributed this to their high volume of content, bold promises, and use of attention-grabbing techniques, while noting that doctors operate within clear professional guidelines. Dr. Munther Al-Harini called on doctors to communicate in the language of their audiences and present information in a simplified and engaging manner. The session concluded that widespread content is not necessarily proof of authenticity. Participants stressed that medical expertise and scientific evidence remain the foundation for evaluating health information. They also highlighted the importance of strengthening the digital presence of doctors as health educators who contribute to prevention and help build a more informed society.