Thirty Days, Numerous Connections: The MedSocial30 Challenge and its Influence on Neurologists’ Social Media Presence
Haitham Alhazaimeh1, Dhanya Gorty2, Jorge Patino Murillas3, Jessica Goldstein4, Jaclyn Martindale5, Rachel Gottlieb-Smith6, Casey Albin7, Rohit Marawar8
1Jordan University of Science and Technology, 2University of Kentucky, 3University of Cincinnati, 4University of Minnesota, 5Wake Forest Medical Center, 6University of Michigan, Division of Pediatric Neurology, 7Emory Healthcare, 8Wayne State University - Detroit Medical Center
Objective:

To evaluate the impact of consistent posting on X on growth metrics and perceived connectedness among neurologists participating in the Neurology Digital Education Scholars Program (NDESP).



Background:

Social media enables neurologists to increase visibility and build networks. The impact of disciplined posting practices remains under-investigated.


Design/Methods:

The study was a quasi-experimental, one-group pretest-posttest design. Participants in the NDESP optionally participated in a social media engagement challenge (“MedSocial30”) in which they attempted to post daily on X for 30 days (Oct 6th -Nov 4th, 2024). Social media metrics (number of followers, posting frequency, impressions, likes, retweets, replies, and peer comments) were collected from the month prior (baseline) and the day after the challenge’s conclusion.  Participants completed a pre-/post-challenge survey evaluating their confidence in using social media and perception of community engagement. Analyses included descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, Pearson correlations, and simple and multivariable regressions.


Results:

Six neurologists participated. Mean posts per 30 days rose from 5.5 at baseline to 22.3 during the challenge (mean change +16.8 ± 9.3). Impressions increased by a mean of 32,228 (±21,228), likes by 294 (±172), retweets by 58 (±52), and replies by 54 (±48) (all p < 0.05). Pearson correlations between posting frequency and engagement metrics were positive; the strongest observed correlation was with comments (r = 0.75, p = 0.09). Each additional post predicted more retweets (β = 3.45; 95% CI 1.77–5.13; p < 0.001) and greater total engagement (β = 16.3; 95% CI 2.46–30.3; p = 0.021). In multivariable models adjusted for baseline follower counts, posting frequency remained directionally positive for impressions and likes but did not reach statistical significance. Participant surveys noted increased confidence in posting and a stronger sense of connectedness to peers.


Conclusions:

For neurologists seeking to cultivate an online presence, frequent posting on X produced measurable gains in digital reach and social media engagement.


10.1212/WNL.0000000000213142
Disclaimer: Abstracts were not reviewed by Neurology® and do not reflect the views of Neurology® editors or staff.