As part of its efforts to combat online disinformation, YouTube has launched a verification system for healthcare workers in the UK.

The video-sharing platform saw more than three billion views of health videos in the UK alone in 2022.

To be eligible, doctors, nurses, and psychologists must meet rigorous criteria set by the tech giant.

Candidates who are successful will have a badge identifying them as licensed healthcare workers.

YouTubers have warned the system is only intended for educational purposes, not to replace medical advice.

The sheer number of people accessing healthcare information on YouTube, said Vishaal Virani, YouTube’s health content manager.

“Whether we like it or not, whether we want it or not, whether the health industry pushes for it or not, people access health information online.”.

Our content needs to be as rigourous as possible when they start their online care journey.

Our goal is to create an environment where experts and authorities can elevate their content.”

According to Dr Simi Adedeji, a YouTuber who focuses on skin health and women’s health, “it’s such a great thing because you get to tackle some tricky topics and conversations.”.

I am able to discuss some of the embarrassing topics that women are often too embarrassed to discuss, or that they were too embarrassed to even bring up in their doctor’s consultation.”