Healthcare Needs A Social Media Cure

More and more consumers are increasingly depending on the Internet and social media channels for health information. According to a new Pricewaterhouse Coopers report, one third of consumers use sites like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and online forums to research health-related matters. More than 40 percent of  consumers use social media for health-related consumer reviews, including reviews of physicians and treatments. Yet, healthcare organizations, including hospitals, health insurers and pharmaceutical companies, have not yet found a way to balance privacy laws and industry regulations with the ability to engage existing and new patients online. Of the more than 1,000 respondents in PwC's report, 41 percent said it would affect their choice of doctor or medical facility and 32 percent said it would affect their choice of a health insurance plan. Healthcare providers should also note that an overwhelming (80 percent) number of respondents ages 18-24 said they would share health-related information through social media channels. It sounds like healthcare organizations need to find a cure for their social media engagement illness.

Patients Get The Digital Treatment

In an increasingly competitive and value-conscious healthcare market, pharmaceutical companies will need to look beyond their labs for their own long-term health. Regardless of the medical merits of their products, big pharma success will depend more than ever how effectively they blend digital services into their product offerings. This is especially true for poducts developed for repeated use over many years in the treatment of conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and autoimmune diseases. Chronic conditions require changes in lifestyle and medication is just a part of the treatment. Pharma brands who offer physicians and patients a suite of digital services that can help manage conditions and adapt lifestyles, will forge a strong bond. Digital gives pharma brands the scope to provide services that add value without significant cost burdens. These digital services will likely be available in web, tablet and mobile formats so that users can switch between devices and still access the services seamlessly.