How to collaborate with industry on social media

As clinicians, we have knowledge that can help patients, caregivers and other healthcare providers. Industry knows this and often partners with HCPs to share valuable information about a disease, medicine or trial.

There are 2 main ways to collaborate:

Unbranded: Focuses a disease only, with no mention of a specific medication.

Branded: Talks about a specific medication or device, following strict accuracy and compliance rules. Always check your hospital or institution's guidelines first.

Here are 3 ways to work together:

1. Video interviews

Record a conversation about a disease-related topic you know well (for example, minimal residual disease or risk stratification). This can be longer videos (15-20 min) on YouTube or short clips (under 90 sec) for LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter/X.

Example: A clinician shares tips on early cancer detection, posted as both a YouTube video and social media snippets.

Tip: Tag colleagues in your post to improve your engagement!

2. Live social events

Host a live session on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook (30-45 minutes). These projects often include a short planning meeting beforehand.

Example: A Facebook Live on kidney health featured a doctor, a patient and a moderator.

Tip: Viewers can ask questions live and you can share the full recording and clips later.

3. Industry-sponsored posts

You can also share or repost content the company has created on your own social channels, for example, tied to an event or awareness month.

Tip: Always disclose your relationship with the company.

Compensation

Pay varies by company, usually $400-$1,000 per hour and this should include prep, travel and review time. All payments must be reported under the Sunshine Act.

Bottom line

Social media partnerships let you share your expertise, reach more people and build your professional presence. It's a team effort, so make sure the project works for both you and the company.