Dental Tribune United Kingdom Edition

A new report has revealed that 60 per cent of Eu- ropean doctors are us- ing Wikipedia for their work. 300 GPs across Europe were interviewed for the report, which examined how regularly doctors accessed the internet for both professional and per- sonal reasons. According to one report, the statistic jumps to 69% when analysing the number of European GPs using social media sites for profes- sional use outside of just Wiki- pedia (including FaceBook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter). On the site, the online en- cyclopaedia, confirms that: “... Wikipedia is written collabo- ratively by largely anonymous internet volunteers who write without pay. Anyone with internet access can write and make changes to Wikipedia articles... users can contribute anonymously, under a pseudo- nym, or with their real identity, if they choose.” “The issue that needs de- bate here is whether this is a surprise to patients and doctors alike, as it is clearly a forum that GPs do refer to,” said Dam- ian Eade, Director at Insight Re- search Group, who spearhead- ed the research. “The report is certainly not saying Wikipedia, and other social platforms, are not exceptional fonts of knowl- edge for the public. But should it be a sensible and reliable place for medi- cal professionals to turn to?” Surprisingly the report also highlighted that throughout Europe the social web wasn’t only used by young doctors: the report revealed that around 75 per cent of doctors in the 51-60 age groups had stated that they regularly used Wikipedia for professional use. The report also suggests that the internet is fast becom- ing a regular part of a patients’ visiting to their doctor. Half of the doctors interviewed stated that they recommend specific websites for patients to visit following their consul- tations; a further 87 per cent were known to have advised certain sites for patients with regards to seeking background and educational information on their condition; 70 per cent searched the internet for ad- ditional support and advice and 69 per cent used the web for more information regard- ing treatment and medication. One report suggested that the report has reinforces the view that we have entered the era of the ‘ePatient’ - where the web has become a trusted tool for not only daily tasks, but also health-related matters. How- ever, as Damian Eade stressed: “Whether it’s researching ill- nesses, sharing experiences, making recommendations or providing moral support for other patients around the world, the social web has re- invented health advice, and we need to make sure the right ad- vice is on hand for people.” DT “Dr Wikipedia will see you now…” T his week heralds a new senior manage- ment team at Wyten Technologyas the company be- gins selling products direct to dental care professionals in the UK as well as expanding its business into USA. Benjamin Mak is promoted to chief executive officer. His re- sponsibilities will include over- seeing the continuing growth in the UK market and expan- sion plans in the new global markets. Previously chief op- erations officer at Wyten Tech- nology, Benjamin has been with the company since its inception. Previously holding senior managerial positions in industries as diverse as engi- neering, logistics and whole- sale supply, Benjamin brings a wealth of experience and skills to the company. Benjamin has been thoroughly instrumental in the establishment of Wyten Technology as a leading, in- novative supplier of dental products. Lisa Roche assumes the role of international sales and marketing manager at Wyten Technology where she will be responsible for developing a direct sales structure for the product range. Lisa holds more than 30 years’ experience in the dental industry working with market leaders including Dis- cus Dental and Nobel Biocare. Melonie Prebble becomes in- ternational clinical development manager at Wyten Technology where her role will encompass- clinical advisory and practical training, key customer support and team development. Boasting 20 years’ experience in the dental industry, Melonie is a renowned national speaker in the field of comprehensive care, dental hy- giene and team building and a regular contributor to eminent dental journals. She previously chairedtheBritishDentalHygiene Association London region. DT WYTEN Technology gets new management team GPs are seeing a rising use of wikipedia for professional information gathering June 13-19, 20118 News United Kingdom Edition