10 Ways How Healthcare Industry is Using Social Media

With more and more people having access to various social networking sites, important industries in the world including the healthcare segment have incorporated social media as an important channel in their marketing plan.

According to a recent study, it was found that 90% of adult consumers used social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, etc to share important health information. Having said this let us look at how can you use social media in the healthcare industry.

#1. Raising Awareness

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, we have understood the importance of social media in raising awareness. The healthcare system is using social media to spread simple information such as common sense health practices to prevent the spread of the virus and to increase immunity.

Not only this, but social media is also an important platform to ensure that people are aware of the latest guidelines and advisory issued by the government. 

#2. Communication During Crisis

While we all are stuck inside due to COVID-19, the healthcare industry is taking all the efforts to share official updates using social media. People turn to official healthcare websites for important information during such a crisis.

Through online platforms hospitals and other organizations are able to deliver real-time updates on hospital capacity, cases admitted, cases discharged, operation status, etc.  This allows the sharing of important information to people so that they can take an informed decision.

#3. Combating Rumors

Social media is also prone to a lot of health misinformation and untrue statements. Sometimes, people use the name of reputable institutions to give credibility to such information. In this situation, the healthcare industry can take advantage of its official websites to clarify such misinformation.

#4. Real-Time Monitoring

Social media with real-time data availability can track public health threats popping up in new locations. We have already seen the advantage of constant monitoring in this global pandemic. Healthcare website is constantly declaring contingent zones on the basis of real-time information gathered.

#5. Answer Queries

The Healthcare sector is now using online platforms to address common questions posted by the citizens. Websites can add a chatbox feature to their websites to answer questions raised by citizens to circulate appropriate information and counter misinformation.

#6. Train Medical Professionals

More and more healthcare organizations are leveraging social media channels to train their personnel. Social media helps to have a discussion with doctors and professionals across the boundaries. This is an effective way to train personnel about new healthcare practices and methods.

#7. Engagement of People

There are various health issues that people find embarrassing to talk about, even to the doctors. In this situation having a social media platform can be effective to actively engage people. They can discuss their problems freely without any hesitation at an authoritative source.

#8. Online Support Groups

Various hospitals are forming online support groups for people with certain physical or mental disabilities. Patients can find people with similar conditions in such groups. They can participate in the discussions, tell about their problems. A study has revealed that social media provides less anxiety-provoking communication (rather than face-to-face).

This is a great way to provide support and hope from others who have already improved from such disease.

#9. Marketing

Many healthcare institutions have already taken into account the importance of social media to improve marketing, establish effective communication with patients, and inform them about other facilities.

Social media can be used for the marketing of healthcare services and to advertise services offered. People can schedule appointments, share reviews and provide relevant feedback on these social platforms. This is a great tool for marketing.

#10. Live Updates

There has been an increase in doctors and surgeons providing live updates from the operating room. This helps to deliver up-to-date information.

Tips on Effective Social Media Monitoring in the Healthcare Industry

#1. Always share valuable content with the users that will not only provide them useful information but also educate them.

#2. Check your reviews to understand how people feel about you and what are the areas where you can improve your services.

#3. Follow all the advertisement rules and remember to be compliant.

#4. Give access to authorized and responsible people to prevent misinformation.

#5. Quickly react to any real-time information that can degrade the health of people.

Final Thoughts

Social media continues to be a valuable asset to the healthcare industry and the industry constantly requires administrators to effectively manage these online handles. The goal should be to provide the best healthcare service, accurate information, and maximum service to people. The advertisement should be done after following all the rules as prescribed by the relevant organization.

We hope this article will help you to understand the importance of social media for the health care industry and how this platform can be leveraged to get the maximum benefit.