YouTube initiates the verification process for healthcare professionals in the United Kingdom.
YouTube has introduced a verification system for healthcare professionals in the United Kingdom as part of its efforts to combat misinformation on the platform. In 2022, health-related videos were viewed over three billion times in the UK on YouTube.
Since June, healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and psychologists, have been applying for this program. To qualify, they must meet strict criteria established by the tech giant. Those who are successfully validated will receive a badge under their name, indicating that they are licensed healthcare workers.
However, it’s important to note that this system is designed primarily for educational purposes and is not intended to replace medical advice from a general practitioner (GP).
Vishaal Virani, the leader of health content at YouTube, emphasized the significance of this initiative due to the large number of people seeking healthcare information on the platform. He stressed the need to ensure the quality and accuracy of the content that users access when starting their healthcare journey online.
Dr. Simi Adedeji, a practicing doctor and YouTuber specializing in skin health and women’s health, highlighted the value of creating accessible content that addresses sensitive or embarrassing health topics. She emphasized that this content is meant to provide information and empower viewers but should not be seen as a substitute for consulting a medical professional.
YouTube’s verification system aims to combat false information in health-related videos by prominently featuring validated and authoritative sources in search results. This move comes after YouTube faced criticism for its handling of disinformation related to COVID-19 vaccines, leading to a ban on such content.
Healthcare professionals seeking validation on YouTube must go through a multi-step process in collaboration with medical organizations and regulators. They must hold an active medical license and have no history of posting disinformation. Violations of the rules could result in the loss of validation status or even the suspension of the YouTube account.
Alastair Henderson, former CEO of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, noted that providing false information could also have consequences with individual professional regulators, such as the General Medical Council or Nursing Council.
YouTube hopes that its verification system will serve as a model for other social media platforms to adopt similar practices in the future. The BBC has reached out to Meta (Facebook) and TikTok to inquire about their plans regarding verification systems for healthcare professionals.