Ten years ago, if someone had a persistent headache, they would be making a health care appointment with their doctor, or maybe even running towards Emergency. But the times have changed so much that unless all sources on the internet are checked out, all home remedies exhausted and medications tried out, no one visits the doctor. Instead, they talk to doctor online for their health consultations.
While people have started spending less and less time doing things which require them any effort, they would spend their time comfortably sitting at home, or working than seeking health care. But the space where people spend the most time throughout the day is not a physical place but a virtual space- the internet.
The internet brings ease, convenience, and simplicity to a fingertip, and this is the fastest and most appreciated service the world has ever seen. Social media is a space where people share parts of their life, going to profound depths and expressing themselves uninhibitedly. The freedom that comes with social media enables it to partake in the healthcare industry as well, and impacts consumers and businesses.
The platform that it creates for businesses to thrive also benefits those who are looking for healthcare solutions, and as a result social media serves as a savior for many Here are some ways in which social media is impacting the healthcare industry:
Impact of Social Media on Health Care Patients
Social media has transformed the healthcare experience for patients in many ways. It is a source of valuable information, which is aggregated for the convenience of patients. Patients can find health tips on specific issues, understand their body and its reactions better, all with the help of social media.
Text-based platforms are most used for theoretical concepts, while practicality finds its match with video-based platforms of social media where the correct way to use products, medicines, and practice behaviours are demonstrated. Social media and new technologies are creating awareness around people and prompting them to get CPR certifications to get the skills to deal with emergencies at home.
Social media also has seen a positive growth in spaces which support and empower patients. Online platforms allow users to share their experiences with people worldwide, and a connection can be made miles away with someone who is also going through the same. This is why online support groups and platforms are extremely helpful for patients struggling with chronic and terminal diseases.
Social media creates a virtual community of people who share their concerns and engage effectively, and share insights and experiences. However, the platform also poses a threat in some cases as shared information may not be authentic and can even be potentially dangerous. This is why it is important to be aware of the quality of the information one is receiving and be receptive towards the credibility of the sources of the information that is availed online.
Impact of Social Media on Providers
An important anecdote for any profession is to stay up-to-date. Any business that does not get on with new trends and be receptive towards what the customers want slows down and gradually sees its end. Healthcare, however noble, is at the end of the day business, and like any other business, the healthcare industry has also been impacted by social media and its wide and unavoidable presence in the current times.
Social media introduces businesses to new discoveries, trends, directions that their field is taking; and all of these can be used to become more competitive and provide better facilities and services to their customers. Social Media pages such as docprime Facebook page helps people in staying up-to-date with the latest trends in the healthcare industry, and also gives them information about seasonal diseases.
Moreover, social media allows information to be given out to patients, who are potential clients for healthcare providers. When this information is accurate, effective, and helpful, this creates a loyal base of followers, which boosts every business and sustains it as well.
Providers of healthcare services are tapping into the business that comes from various social media platforms, and if one follows docprime Twitter feed or docprime Facebook page, they too can stay up to date and also receive doctor advice free of cost.
This also requires health care providers to stay loyal to their clients and protect their privacy, meet all legal requirements and follow guidelines given out by governments, and meeting ethical and moral issues effectively.
Social media also impacts the relationship between patients and health care providers. It serves as a channel for interaction between doctors and patients, which is much easier, convenient, and less anxiety provoking. This also ensures that interaction can take place whenever the need is, and that assistance is available at all times.
The healthcare industry has substantially changed its administration since social media has changed the game. The incorporation of the practices of social media marketing has transformed businesses for healthcare providers, and interaction facilities have transformed the experience for users and patients; so much so that it is safe to say that the future of healthcare services will be shaped by how social media takes shape.
