Increasing numbers of physicians and other healthcare professionals are turning to social media to network with other professionals, exchange research, and look for employment opportunities. While these sites can be very helpful to physicians and patients alike, websites specifically targeted toward healthcare communication can be even more beneficial.

An article in InformationWeek, “Healthcare Social Networks: New Choices for Doctors, Patients,” discusses the benefits to using healthcare-based social media websites, for example, websites such as Doximity and Medical Mingle, to interact with other medical professionals as well as patients.

The following are some benefits to using healthcare networking sites for physicians:

  • The opportunity to have access to numerous medical professionals at once. Because these sites are dedicated to medicine alone, users are able to connect with others in the healthcare field or those interested in discussing healthcare issues. One such site, Doximity, claims about 40 percent of US doctors as users. Because it provides contact information for medical professionals all over the country, patients have constant access to medical professionals. Physicians also benefit as they can ask other medical professionals about career advice, network, and look for new job opportunities. In addition, they can seek medical advice from other physicians about their own patients.
  • Providing tools to limit unnecessary doctor visits. Although these networking websites can never replace the care of a doctor, being able to discuss symptoms or ailments can provide some context for understanding what requires a hospital visit and what does not. Some users have even reported fewer emergency room trips after being able to talk to others through these networking websites.

Social networking sites are becoming increasingly popular within the healthcare community, but healthcare-specific social networking sites are even more beneficial. These websites provide benefits that traditional sites cannot such as privacy and the ability to connect with those who share common ailments. These websites are rapidly growing and are a great option for those who have medical questions or concerns.

If you’re in healthcare, insurance, technology or other professional services industries, and need help with a PR, marketing or social media campaign, contact Scott Public Relations.

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