About this Activity
In South Africa, as with many developing countries, WhatsApp is fast emerging as one of the most widely used messaging platforms across various sectors, including healthcare.
While WhatsApp's convenience cannot be denied, its use in healthcare raises significant legal, ethical, and professional concerns, particularly regarding patient confidentiality and privacy.
This Accredited article offers an overview of the legal and ethical frameworks governing WhatsApp use in South African healthcare, highlighting the healthcare professionals' responsibilities for legal and ethical compliance. It discusses practical use cases and associated challenges, detailing the implications for healthcare providers in implementing and utilising WhatsApp effectively in clinical practice settings.
What You Will Learn
This module intends to provide you with insight into the use of WhatsApp in your practice. On completion, you will:
- Understand the legal and regulatory frameworks governing WhatsApp communication in clinical settings
- Gain insights into the effective use of WhatsApp in patient care and interprofessional communication
- Identify potential challenges and risks associated with WhatsApp usage, including confidentiality concerns and miscommunication
- Understand practical considerations for integrating WhatsApp into daily practice, ensuring efficiency and compliance
- Comprehend the ethical responsibilities and best practices for maintaining professionalism while using WhatsApp for patient interactions
CPD Accreditation Information
This activity is is NOT ACCREDITED for 2026
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