Recent studies have compiled a picture of those that are most likely to look for health information online.

These people are:

  • Adults ranging between 18-49
  • Those with some college education
  • Typically women
  • Those who come from a higher-income household

Adults less likely to look for information online dealing with their health include:

  • Disabled adults
  • People over 65 years old (only 29%)
  • Adults with a high school education or who have dropped out of school earlier
  • Adults who live in low-income households
  • Latinos or African Americans

Why is this important?

Knowing this data, allows us to create avenues of communication for reaching those that need healthcare information to participate in our new system.  Currently, implementation of patient portals are part of meaningful use in electronic health record systems.  Patients can not only schedule their appointments, but also ask questions, seek advice on conditions or get results from laboratory tests.

By having mobile-friendly health applications, minority groups can be reached since they commonly use mobile devices.  This may increase participation among these groups, enabling them to receive health information from additional sources.  Caregivers can close the gap for seniors since it has been shown that almost three quarters of them do go online for health information and help in caring for their charges.

Reaching Out Strategy

One of the reasons why the medical community should strive to reach their patients and prospective patients through their computers is due to a recent study.

According to TeleVox, “51% of people say they’d feel more valued as a patient through digital health communications”. Therefore, by having a strategy to reach out, you will be strengthening the relationships of your patients and strengthening your brand as the one who cares to potential clients as well.

One of the most effective ways to reach out is by having an ezine or newsletter.  Include a FAQ section where people can get solutions to problems that they have been struggling with.  Let patients know the latest medical breakthroughs and also the procedures or ideology that sets you apart from the doctors in the area. As the newsletter is shared, traffic to your site increases and more prospective patients from your local area will become acquainted with your practice.

As a prospective patient, I would certainly want to read what you have to offer.

Need time or help in setting up your newsletter?  No problem. Contact us at: Barbara@TheMedicalStrategist.com  We’d be happy to help.