Here’s Why Social Media Is Important in Healthcare

As a healthcare professional, you’ve taken an oath to prioritize your patient’s health and well-being above all else. Your specialty is in providing healthcare to the public. However, you must also do what’s best for your facility – on some level, you have to think like a business owner. 

When it comes to expanding your reach and popularizing your brand, there’s no doubt that social media can be an instrumental tool. Nearly 70% of Americans are on Facebook alone. 

It’s also incredibly important for your practice. By why is social media important in healthcare?

Keep reading to find out.

1. Share Important Information With the Public

One of the most important ways in which you can use healthcare social media marketing is by spreading awareness in the community. Our current health pandemic is a prime example.

COVID-19 has turned our country on its head, causing mass confusion, fear, and panic. The more positive and accurate information you can spread through your platform, the more credibility and trust you can gain from the public.

2. Connect With Patients

Why is social media important in healthcare for the patient?

Social media and healthcare can be joined to create important connections with past, present, and future patients. Your goal shouldn’t be to use your platform to constantly post promotions and sales pitches. 

You do need to use it to express genuine interest in the community. Listen to their concerns. Invite them to voice their opinions.

3. Address Important Questions and Concerns

You may also be wondering “What is the role of social media in healthcare?” What else should you be using your platform for?

As with any social media presence, if you want high engagement levels, you need to engage back with your audience. When they ask questions, post comments, or write messages, you need to get back to them as soon as possible. This will make them feel heard and valued.

4. Establish Your Facility as a Credible Authority

Using your social media account to post valuable and informative content will encourage people in your community to follow your page. When you post information that benefits the user, it builds credibility and a sense of authority of your brand in your industry.

Think about articles and content surrounding topics like:

• How to react in medical emergencies
• What symptoms to watch for with COVID-19
• Steps towards a healthier lifestyle
• Etc.

The more useful information you publish, the more people will engage.

5. Help Eliminate Misinformation

Another important impact of social media on health care is the voice it provides medical professionals. In times of public health concerns, like COVID-19, you can use your platform to slow the spread of inaccurate information. 

As an authoritative and respected source, your voice will be heard. This is important in this era when a single post can go viral, without regard to the source or its accuracy.

Why Is Social Media Important in Healthcare?

If you’re still wondering “Why is social media important in healthcare?” think about it from a business standpoint. From your social media profile, you can link to your website, contact information, and more. The more people you have following your account, the more influence you’ll have in your community.

However, we understand that social media management isn’t always easy or time-effective. In this case, it might be a good idea to hire some professional help. You can also check out some of our other articles for more digital marketing tips and advice.