Association Between Social Media Use and Patients' Choice of Medical Practitioners Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Social media is increasingly shaping patient decision-making about the choice of healthcare providers. However, its role in the Saudi context remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the association between social media use and patient decision-making regarding the choice of healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a validated online questionnaire. The study was conducted between December 2023 and May 2024 to assess demographics, social media usage, and decision-making factors. Results: 1242 participants completed the survey; most participants (96.2%) had personal social media accounts. Instagram (41.3%) and X (37.6%) were the preferred platforms to look up or follow doctors. The most influential factors in choosing a healthcare provider included physician qualifications, online reviews, and patient testimonials. While 81.3% believed medical practices should maintain a social media presence, traditional factors remained more decisive than promotional content. Younger participants, females, and those in the health field were significantly more likely to follow doctors online (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Social media plays a notable role in patient decision-making about healthcare provider selection in Saudi Arabia, particularly among younger individuals and those working in the health sector. Nevertheless, clinical qualifications and trust indicators remain paramount. These findings support the need for healthcare professionals to maintain a credible, ethical, and informative digital presence to enhance patient engagement and informed decision-making.