The RCGP chair told delegates at a social media debate that she had given many of her patients, including doctors with addiction and mental illness problems, her email and mobile number.
The audience took a show of hands on the idea, with the majority saying they would not do the same.
Professor Gerada added: ‘I think it will be social media rather than telehealth or telecare that will transform healthcare.’
North east Scotland GP Dr Alison Douglas said: ‘I would argue that you should document professional communications not just to be defensive but to have a professional record.’
But Dr Ben Riley, RCGP medical director for e-learning, said emails or texts provided greater documentation than phone calls.
Belfast GP Dr Brian Cunningham said: ‘I’m old enough to have practised as a GP without a computer on my desk. When it arrived I was told it would save me 40 minutes a day. That hasn’t happened.
Other panellists said social networks had enabled them to receive peer support.
The RCGP is consulting on a social media highway code for GPs. To contribute, email your comments to communications@rcgp.org.uk or visit the college’s Facebook page.
* Editor's Blog: Should patients have their GP's mobile phone number and email address?
