Young adults following physicians on TikTok consider them more accessible, credible and altruistic than their own doctors, even when the physician-influencers are selling products. Moreover, the followers haven't actually confirmed the influencers' medical credentials. Those are the main findings of a new study from Virginia Commonwealth University, co-authored by Suzanne Makarem, Ph.D., and published in the Journal of Consumer Affairs.
❓ Unknown
Influence of TikTok Physicians on Gen Z's Perception of Healthcare
3w ago
October 6, 2026
1 min read
📰 Phys.org
📋 Key Takeaway
A study from Virginia Commonwealth University reveals that young adults view TikTok physicians as more credible and accessible than their own doctors, despite not verifying their credentials. This trend highlights the growing influence of social media on health perceptions among Gen Z. In Iran, this could impact how young people seek medical advice and trust healthcare professionals.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
The credibility gap between TikTok physicians and traditional doctors highlights a significant shift in health communication among young adults.
👥 Key Players
Suzanne Makarem, Ph.D.
MENTIONED
Co-author of the study
"Her research sheds light on the influence of social media on healthcare perceptions, particularly among young adults."
TikTok Physicians
MENTIONED
Influencers providing medical advice on TikTok
"They represent a new wave of healthcare communication that can shape public opinion and trust in medical advice."
Gen Z
MENTIONED
Target demographic of the study
"As a significant portion of the population, their health perceptions can influence future healthcare trends and practices."
📰 What Happened
A study found that young adults view physicians on TikTok as more credible and accessible than their own doctors, despite not verifying their credentials. This trend indicates a shift in how healthcare information is consumed and trusted.
- Young adults consider TikTok physicians more credible than traditional doctors.
- Followers often do not verify the medical credentials of these influencers.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: This trend could influence how young Iranians seek medical advice, potentially undermining trust in traditional healthcare systems.
🌍 Regional: In the broader Middle East, similar trends might emerge, affecting public health initiatives and the credibility of health professionals.
🌐 International: Globally, this raises concerns about misinformation in healthcare and the need for regulatory frameworks for medical advice on social media.
📚 Background
Social media platforms like TikTok have become influential in shaping public perceptions, particularly among younger generations, who often prefer informal and relatable content.
Social media influence on health
Misinformation in healthcare
📡 Source:
NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
The study is published in a peer-reviewed journal, indicating a level of academic rigor, but readers should consider the broader implications and potential biases in social media research.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 100%
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