New JMA system to crack down on misleading medical advertisements on social media

AMMAN — The Jordan Medical Association (JMA) is working to develop a new system to regulate medical advertisements on social media, according to an official. 

JMA President Ziad Al Zu’bi told The Jordan Times that the association is calling on the relevant government agencies to support their efforts to prepare a modern system that ensures the quality of medical services provided by healthcare professionals.

 “JMA is developing a system to regulate medical advertisements for doctors,” Zu’bi added, noting that the move is aimed at improving the medical profession and ensuring patients’ safety.

Using the system will become mandatory for any physician promoting their clinic or any other medical services, Zu’bi said. “The new system will ensure that medical advertisements on social media comply with regulations, while also providing patients with accurate information and enhancing their trust in the medical profession.”

“Efforts are underway to draft a system through the Legislation Bureau aimed at monitoring medical advertisements on social media,” Zu’bi said. 

The move came in response to concerns raised by the JMA over “misleading” posts on social media advertising medical services. 

Such advertisements can “deceive” patients and harm the reputation of the medical profession in Jordan, making regulations necessary, Zu’bi added. 

False or misleading advertisements subject patients to certain risks, particularly when the advertising doctor lacks the necessary competence in the services advertised.

 “We are optimistic that the new system will enhance transparency and ensure the quality of medical services promoted on social media,” Zu’bi said. 

In addition to the new system, the association will publish a list of doctors and their associated specialties on the JMA website within three weeks, Zu’bi added.

This step is intended to provide patients with easy access to information about the specialisation of the doctor they plan to visit, “providing patients with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their healthcare”, Zu’bi said.