Why is Social Media Important for Medical Providers?

Despite what some may think, social media is not just for posting photos of babies and animals, but also a sounding board for consumers to voice their experiences and ask for peer advice. A study released last year by the consulting company PwC reports a steady increase in social media users discussing and managing healthcare online. If you’re a physician or health care provider wondering if you really have to be on social media, the answer is yes if you want to connect fully with your patient population.

According to the survey of the 1000 consumers and 124 physicians, 24% reported posting about a medical experience and 27% posted reviews or opinions on medications, treatments, and their providers.  While these statistics are impressive, it’s important to approach social media management with a clear plan of action.

Beth McCauley, President of McCauley Marketing Services shares about social media strategy, “A physician’s skills and personality are naturally going to attract a certain patient demographic so it’s best to continue to represent yourself genuinely on your social media profiles.  It is important, however, to remember the laws protecting patients’ personal health information (HIPAA). Even though patients feel comfortable sharing personal information about their health history and concerns on these sites, physicians need to be wary of offering specific treatment advice directly online.”

In addition to furthering the positive reputation management of a medical practice or providers, social media also allows physicians to share about their latest accomplishments and research with their patients.  Using tools like Twitter and blog writing, doctors can maintain awareness with their patients regularly, not just when patients need them.

For more information about the professional blogging and social media management McCauley Marketing Services provides clients, be sure to visit their website and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.