Dr. Rodriguez Part 1: Spotting “Fake Science” on Social Media

Co-hosts Dr. Jim McDonald and Dr. Philip Chan are back for season 2 of Public Health Out Loud! In this two-part season opener, our co-hosts are joined by Dr. Pablo Rodriguez, a longtime physician, former medical director of Planned Parenthood of Rhode Island, and an advocate for public health in the local and national Hispanic community. He’s also a longtime radio show host who describes himself as a “relentless surveyor of the truth” on social media.  In this part-one episode, Dr. Rodriguez talks about his experience as a medical professional and public health spokesperson battling misinformation through the years. “What’s different now is social media,” he says. “People used to have to pick up the phone or see someone in person to share misinformation. Now you can just share it with a click.” The doctors give advice on how to identify "fake science" on social media and what to do when you spot it. They also talk about how to frame discussions with family members or friends who may be spreading misinformation. Download this week’s episode to learn more and stay tuned for part two of our discussion with Dr. Rodriguez coming next week.