Twin sister Queensland pharmacists have launched a healthcare information platform to help counter the rise of online misinformation.
Miranda Chan and Courtney Oar said they built Pretty Proven after witnessing a growing number of patients using TikTok, influencers and other social media for medical advice.
This rise of “TikTok healthcare” was changing the way patients interacted with healthcare professionals and creating new pressures for doctors and pharmacists.
Data suggested more than 80 percent of young people used social media for health information
“As pharmacists, we were personally being faced with misleading health information via our social media accounts,” Ms Chan said.
“It’s unsurprising that women are left feeling confused, overwhelmed and unsure what to believe after consuming conflicting information online.”
The Pretty Proven founders have more than 15 years experience across pharmacy, education and healthcare settings.
“We’re now seeing pharmacists and doctors spend more time than ever unpacking misinformation, correcting wellness myths and helping patients critically evaluate what they’re consuming online,” Ms Oar said.
“The role of pharmacists is evolving rapidly. We’re seeing pharmacists become educators, communicators, advocates, digital creators and expanded scope healthcare professionals. It’s an incredibly exciting time for the profession.”
The pair believe the pharmacy profession is uniquely positioned to become a stronger force in preventative health education, digital healthcare communication and patient advocacy.
They says the platform is designed to complement healthcare professionals and support evidence-based conversations between patients and their healthcare teams.
“We’re not trying to replace other healthcare professionals,” Ms Chan said.
“We’re passionate about supporting our fellow pharmacists, doctors and allied health professionals by creating accessible, evidence-based education women can trust.”