With social media playing such a large role in people’s lives, it comes as no surprise that when Americans become concerned about their health, they look online for answers. A recent survey from Tebra looked at what platforms people used the most, how accurate their diagnoses were, variations in generational differences and how many of them followed up with a medical professional.

Diagnosis-related medical content on social media has become more widespread over the past few years, filling user feeds with stories of sickness, symptoms, and surprising recoveries. Some of the data searched was from respected sources such as online reference books or created by medical professionals,however, much of it is posted by content creators, influencers, and other random users. The content is so relatable and convincing that some people have begun using social media to self-diagnose.

The Survey

To evaluate and understand the effects of social media self-diagnosing, 1,000 people were surveyed about their experience with medical content across various platforms. Participants were asked how often they came across diagnostic content in their feeds, if they ever self-diagnosed based on it, and what they did after making a diagnosis.

Reported key takeaways were:

• 1 in 4 people have self-diagnosed based on social media information.
• 43% of those who self-diagnosed followed up with a medical professional about a disease or illness they discovered on social media.
• 82% of those who visited a doctor after social media self-diagnosing had their diagnosis confirmed.

Infographic Gallery & Slide Show of Survey Results
(click to view)

The future of medicine?

Social media has become a leading source of information for many people, a role that has extended to the health field. Instead of waiting for appointments and tests, people are turning to their content feeds to learn about symptoms and self-diagnose. While online medical content can be helpful, people should be cautious about self-diagnosing; seeking professional medical advice regarding any major illness, disease, or treatment plan is still crucial. 

Many communities e.g. retirement communities, have a social media community website where residents can ask the community for shopping suggestions or for a recommendation for a service or repair professional. Healthcare is also a prominent feature – it may be a request for a recommendation for a primary care clinician or a specialist. There are even requests about ways to manage an illness or a symptom. or a family member. And more often than not, opinions are plentiful, both positive and negative.

Survey Source: Americans see pros and cons of social media diagnosis content. Tebra. Published June 2, 2023. Accessed July 19, 2023. https://www.tebra.com/blog/social-media-self-diagnosing/