Project title
A web-based training module to navigate ethical challenges in social media advertising to support young and future dentists
Country
Malaysia
Background
Unethical dental advertising on social media has raised significant concerns due to its potential to mislead patients. Many dental practices use social media platforms to promote their services, but some advertising methods stretch ethical boundaries. These adverts often exploit persuasive tactics, like exaggerated before-and-after images, celebrity endorsements, or misleading claims about quick, painless treatments to attract patients. This form of marketing not only compromises patient trust, but also raises legal and ethical questions about the honesty and transparency required in healthcare advertising.
Summary
This project will involve the development and implementation of a web-based module to transfer knowledge on dental advertising, focusing on key advertising principles that are universally accepted. It will also focus on principles and guidelines specific to Malaysia, utilising open education resources (OER) to ensure widespread accessibility and engagement.
Outcome
Integrating the module's best practices into dental curricula ensures future professionals understand ethical advertising. Emphasising universal principles enables global collaboration, while open course ware platform access promotes widespread adoption, strengthening ethical standards and public trust in dentistry worldwide.