Aisha, a second-year medical student at Aga Khan University (AKU), grappled with a complex systemic lupus erythematosus case. She wished she could connect with specialists, particularly those in underserved regions, to understand how the disease shows up in different ways. "If only there was a way to connect with experts globally," she thought, "and learn how they manage these cases in different cultural contexts."
The CORDIALITY study, a narrative review co-authored by Dr Angela Migowa, Associate Professor at AKU and Consultant in General Paediatrics and Paediatric Rheumatologist at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi, offers a compelling perspective on facilitating such connections. This review critically examines the transformative potential of social media platforms, including X, Facebook and LinkedIn, in advancing equity and collaboration within the field of rheumatology. It addresses the significant challenge of the digital divide, which can affect medical students, clinicians, and patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The study provides a detailed analysis of social media's impact across education, patient empowerment, networking, and research collaboration.
For institutions like AKU, this research is a call to action. Imagine virtual consultations connecting AKU-trained rheumatologists with remote clinics throughout East Africa, or online mentorship programmes linking AKU students with global specialists. Dr Migowa and her co-authors emphasize the importance of addressing inequities and leveraging digital platforms for improved patient care and professional development.
"One key finding in the CORDIALITY review is that social media platforms are crucial for establishing fruitful collaborations," Dr Migowa noted. The study highlights the potential for rapid knowledge dissemination through webinars, live Q&A sessions, and online forums, which can significantly enrich AKU's curriculum and empower students like Aisha with access to diverse perspectives. Dr Migowa also encourages students to learn effective social media use, suggesting potential collaborations with AKU's Graduate School of Media and Communications (GSMC).
Furthermore, the review addresses the critical aspects of patient education and empowerment. It explains social media's potential to provide vital information, foster supportive communities, and amplify advocacy. For AKU, this means development of culturally sensitive educational resources and leveraging platforms like TikTok for effective patient education. Dr Migowa stressed the importance of accuracy, stating, "The dissemination of truth also cannot be compromised."
Addressing digital inclusivity, Dr Migowa acknowledges existing challenges related to device access and internet connectivity. "The Aga Khan University provides students with devices and internet, removing those barriers," she stated. She encourages students to utilize these resources, emphasizing the need to learn platform-specific optimization.
The CORDIALITY review also highlights the transformative impact of social media on networking and mentorship, areas often constrained by geographical limitations. It advocates for the adoption of virtual events, online expert directories, and hybrid conferences, offering AKU students opportunities to build robust professional networks. This is particularly significant for women in rheumatology, who often face career advancement barriers. "Media and technology has reduced that gap, allowing us to benefit from the wisdom and counsel of those far beyond our reach," Dr Migowa said.
The review also highlights social media's role in facilitating research collaboration, citing the COVID-19 Global Rheumatology Alliance as a compelling example. Dr Migowa stated, "Blending our technical knowledge with their communication expertise creates an unstoppable force for transformation, not just in Kenya or Africa, but globally."
The CORDIALITY study serves as a significant reference, illuminating pathways towards a more equitable and collaborative future within rheumatology, and empowering students like Aisha with the tools and connections to excel in their professional journeys.
