New York Times, Octobe 8, 2012
BEI Commentary: A very interesting article about how some physicians are using social media. Obviously there are a lot of issues to work out, but it looks like these technologies can be put to good use in working with patients.
The teenager’s cellphone buzzes. Her doctor, Natasha Burgert, is texting her: “Better morning with this medication?”
Another teenager opens his phone. “Everything is great,” reads Dr. Burgert’s discreet text. “Go ahead with the plan we discussed. Please reply so I know you received.”
And on the morning of college entrance exams, a teenager who suffers from a roiling stomach reads Dr. Burgert’s texted greeting: “Prepared. Focused. Calm. Your body is healthy and well. Good luck today.” Read More
US News & World Report, November 21, 2011
BEI Commentary: Comment: Doctors are starting to find innovative ways to use social media to promote their practices. Here are a few examples.
Thomas Lee’s business cards are stamped with the link to his Facebook page. The orthopedic surgeon actively tweets, checks in regularly on FourSquare, and maintains a GooglePlus profile. And he does it for his patients. “It’s an electronic way of extending the conversation,” says Lee, who practices at Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center in Westerville, Ohio. “It creates a vibrant sense of community and a wonderful back-and-forth dialogue.”
Social media makes it easier than ever for patients and physicians to connect outside the exam room. And while most of the attention has centered on hospitals’ efforts, which are often driven by marketing and have relatively large budgets, primary care and other private-practice doctors are building an online presence. It’s too soon to take for granted that your personal physician will be on Facebook or Twitter, but some doctors say that may be the norm within a few years. More than 1,300 doctors have already registered with TwitterDoctors.net, a database of physicians who tweet. “These are powerful, tremendously influential tools,” says internist Kevin Pho of Nashua, N.H., a popular medical blogger who engages with his patients via Facebook and Twitter. “Doctors should be taking advantage of the opportunity.” Read More
