I joined Twitter in May of 2012. But as a busy neuroradiologist, I promptly forgot I had an account. A year later, a colleague encouraged me to give Twitter another try. I dusted off my account, changed my handle to my real name, exchanged the egghead profile for my real photo and added a short bio related to my professional interests as a neuroradiologist. What have I learned in the two years since?
Here are 7 ways twitter use can benefit you as a Neuroradiologist:
- Twitter allows you to stay on top of the latest research
It is difficult to stay abreast of the latest clinical advances and most up-to-date research. By following medical societies, journals and individuals with similar clinical interests, the latest research is curated for you.
- Twitter puts you in control of your online reputation
Whether you like it or not, your professional image will end up on the internet. You don’t want Vitals.com or Healthgrades.com to control your identity for you. Twitter puts you in the driver’s seat in shaping your online reputation.
- Twitter connects you with patients
Patients increasingly seek information about their healthcare on the internet. Twitter is an amazing platform for us as the imaging experts to correct misinformation about our imaging exams regarding radiation dose, MRI safety and safe administration of contrast materials.
- Twitter enhances your research
Twitter allows you to interact directly with other experts in the field to learn about the latest advances. In turn, they can critique your research so you can improve on it next time. Twitter also allows cross pollination of ideas from other specialties and other fields that can be applied to our specialty.
- Twitter provides an introduction to radiology leaders
You can follow anyone on twitter making it a great venue to get to know leaders in our field in both a professional and a personal context. It provides the perfect ice-breaker when you meet in person at meetings and allows for an instant connection.
- Twitter increases your visibility and credibility as a thought leader
As you connect with like-minded individuals, you will gain the confidence to put your own opinions and thoughts out there. Twitter connections have led to research collaboration, invitations to host tweetchats, give lectures, participate in webinars and write blog posts.
- Twitter is easy and a lot of fun!
Once you get the hang of it, it really is a lot of fun. You can connect with people from all over the world and I guarantee you will learn something new every day. Check out the hashtag #RSNAshoes or its correlate #RSNAsox to see for yourself. Or tweet with me at the annual meeting using the hashtag #ASNR15. Or join me for a tweetup. And of course you can always follow me @AmyKotsenas .
