Your reputation is one of your most valuable business assets in today’s digitally driven world.
Social media has an increasingly important role to play in maintaining an organization’s reputation and image.
Not only are patients seeking health information online, but many also say their choice of a specific doctor, hospital or medical treatment is influenced by social media.
One-third of health consumers use social media sites to research health information, track and share symptoms and vocalize how they feel about their doctors, drugs, treatment plans, insurance, and medical devices. Many say their choice of a specific doctor, hospital or medical treatment is influenced by social media.
And with the advent of patient review sites, and online discussion forums, you risk leaving your brand reputation in the hands of others.
Don’t think because you don’t appear online doesn’t mean you aren’t being talked about.
The fact is that patients are talking about you online whether you are there or not!
You can’t opt out of reputation management – whether you have a social media presence or not, a patient who has a bad experience with your organization is only one tweet or Facebook post away from sharing it with the world.
It is far better to take control of your reputation by responding to these conversations yourself and correcting any misinformation or misperceptions. Responding in real time strengthens public perception that your focus is firmly on patient satisfaction.
A successful social media presence hinges on the trust between you and your followers.
A study compiled by Demi & Cooper Advertising and DC Interactive Group shows that more than 90% of people ages 18-24 said they would trust health information they found on social media channels.
Becoming a trusted source of health information for your patients and proactively developing a strong, consistent, and credible image online will increase patient trust and confidence in your organization.
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