Use of smartphone-based instant messaging services in medical practice: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Instant messaging services (IMS) are widely used in medical practice. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate perceptions regarding use and usability of IMS within clinical practice and assess users’ knowledge of the ethical and legal context involved in using IMS within medical practice. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in different hospitals and medical institutions in Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: Medical students, medical residents, primary care physicians and specialist doctors answered an online questionnaire regarding epidemiological data, graduation le...