As the evolution of Web 2.0 technologies progresses, we are afforded more options for delivering content. Further, the audience that we are able to reach also increases in size. For my IT157N class, I've been tasked with a number of assignments. One of which was to compare/critique the delivery of health-related content by way of Second Life and YouTube. As I stated in my last post on 12/20/10, I came to the conclusion that while Second Life is capable of delivering a wealth of information, the actual user experience can be lacking (if not downright unbearable). This is due to the fact that no two areas in Second Life are the same as far as navigability and overall ease of use. These shortcomings can be further exasperated by exploring Second Life on a computer that contains sub-par hardware.
Enter YouTube
YouTube is another option that healthcare establishments have at their disposal. Since 2005, users have been able to deliver content to the web at large via YouTube. Thanks to their ever increasing capacity and support for a plethora of video formats, YouTube is the preferred medium of anyone looking to share their media, individuals and organizations alike.
The following is a video posted by PreOp.com, a website that specializes in instructional videos for a variety of inpatient/outpatient, exploratory, and surgical procedures.
http://bit.ly/dIx6Ew
Rather than having to sift the the vast (or paltry) amounts of information contained within Second Life, YouTube allows you to search for videos that specifically relate to what you are looking to learn more about. Furthermore, there's a comment feature that allows users to interact, enabling them to ask more specific questions, make comments/observations, and offer criticism. YouTube offers a clean, simple, easily navigable environment that makes finding more about any topic as simple a few keystrokes.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Security for Social Networking Health Plan
Being that social networking and media is still in its infancy, it is imperative that the activities and accounts of the division are as secure as humanly possible. Under no circumstances are the members of the Social Networking and Media group to share account information (usernames/passwords) or access to their resources with anyone (Other than the Vps of Information Systems and Public Relations. As stated in the previous Project 3 post, certain department heads and other, specifically chosen persons would have accounts on the blog portion of the hospital’s social networking presence. This is part of the reason that the Social Networking and Media division is made up of only 2-3 individuals, as some of the work is done by other individuals from within the hospital. However, limiting the size of the group (as opposed to say, having a Social Networking and Media rep for each department) limits the possibility of improper use of Social Networking resources. Further, the VPs of Information Systems and Public Relations will also monitor the posts/activities of the Social Networking and Media division so as to ensure that the hospital and it’s contents are not being misrepresented (inadvertently or otherwise).
By committing to these procedures, we can screen the outgoing communications that we post, thereby eliminating the risk of publishing content that is incorrect. In this manner, we do not have to fear the possibility of false, erroneous, or otherwise damaging content originating from our establishment’s online presence. This is also important with respect to liability. The last thing that the establishment needs is to be held responsible for some medical mishap that occurs as a result (direct or indirect) of a statement made by one of it’s employees. So long as we adhere to these guidelines, the hospital can reap the benefits of increased exposure and awareness without the worries of liability or defamation.
By committing to these procedures, we can screen the outgoing communications that we post, thereby eliminating the risk of publishing content that is incorrect. In this manner, we do not have to fear the possibility of false, erroneous, or otherwise damaging content originating from our establishment’s online presence. This is also important with respect to liability. The last thing that the establishment needs is to be held responsible for some medical mishap that occurs as a result (direct or indirect) of a statement made by one of it’s employees. So long as we adhere to these guidelines, the hospital can reap the benefits of increased exposure and awareness without the worries of liability or defamation.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Project 2: Take the plunge into Second Life (First Attempt)
For our second project, we've been tasked with exploring the vast, digital world that is Second Life. Our mission is to comb Second life for health related areas, seminars, and other resources. Based on our experiences, we will determine whether Second Life is a viable addition to our Social Networking and Media Strategy.
A link to my first attempt: http://bit.ly/eY1w49
There is a growing number of health care institutions that are utilizing the 3-D virtual world of Second Life to administer health care and advice. While it is an interesting direction to take, I don’t feel that it is a viable long term investment of time, money and resources. For my independent study on Web 2.0 Technologies in Health Care, I have been tasked with experimenting with Second Life, to see for myself how organizations are utilizing the resource.
One reason I can cite for Second life not being a viable option for spreading health care knowledge and awareness is access to adequate hardware. The first computer that I attempted to navigate Second Life proved to be slightly inadequate. Getting around was a slow, frustrating experience. This is likely due to the fact that the machine I was using lacked dedicated graphics. This is even with a dual-core processor and 3 GB RAM. During this attempt, I visited Health Information Island. The island itself is vast, and proved difficult to navigate. I feel this would be especially difficult for first time users, that it might frustrate them to the point of not even bothering with Second Life altogether (especially if the hardware that they accessing Second Life with is not up to par).
One reason I can cite for Second life not being a viable option for spreading health care knowledge and awareness is access to adequate hardware. The first computer that I attempted to navigate Second Life proved to be slightly inadequate. Getting around was a slow, frustrating experience. This is likely due to the fact that the machine I was using lacked dedicated graphics. This is even with a dual-core processor and 3 GB RAM. During this attempt, I visited Health Information Island. The island itself is vast, and proved difficult to navigate. I feel this would be especially difficult for first time users, that it might frustrate them to the point of not even bothering with Second Life altogether (especially if the hardware that they accessing Second Life with is not up to par).
A link to my first attempt: http://bit.ly/eY1w49
Project 3: Social Networking Plan for Hospitals or Health Care System (i.e., Group of Hospitals and Services)
We're doing things a bit out of order for this post (but it's only because this one has been done for a long time and was awaiting the posting of the assignments before it). For the third project, I've been tasked with developing a Social Networking plan for hospitals. The hospital in my example will be known as "Weller Hospital".
Mission Statement:
Weller Hospital on Facebook(Facebook.comWellerHospital):
Weller Hospital’s Facebook presence will be that of a Facebook page (as opposed to a normal account, where anyone who is a “friend” of the Weller Hospital page can post comments). Facebook users will be able to “Like” our page. In turn, they will receive updates on the activities of the hospital in real time. The “Info” section of our page will contain a summary of our establishment. This includes our address, telephone numbers, history, specialties, and sponsors. The “Posts” that we put on our “Wall” will contain information pertaining to health news and advice, seminars being held at the hospital, health/hospital alerts, and events (most of which would be charity events towards special causes).
Weller Hospital on Twitter (Twitter.com/WellerHospital):
Like our Facebook presence, Weller Hospital’s Twitter presence will keep our Followers up to date on the happenings of the hospital. Followers of our Twitter account will receive updates (known as “Tweets”) very similar to those found on our facebook page. Followers will also be able to ask questions regarding our updates, in addition to any other queries they may have regarding our establishment. We will also follow other health-related Twitter accounts (Other hospitals, seasoned health-care professionals, etc) and “Re-Tweet” (re-post) any of their updates that we feel would be of value to our followers. The Social Networking and Media division will make use of URL shortening websites (such as www.bit.ly) to aid them in including links to content in their tweets without exceeding the 140-character tweet cap. In addition, we will update the wait time of our emergency room every 30 minutes, giving potential patients a realistic idea of how long it will take to receive medical attention from our staff. It is our hope that other hospitals will follow our lead in this respect, as it would provide patients with a powerful tool that they can use to take charge of their treatment. It also has the potential to encourage hospitals to make strides toward reducing wait times, thereby encouraging competition amongst hospitals. So long as this approach is applied responsibly, patients will come out as the winners (as will the hospitals with the shortest wait times).
Weller Hospital on YouTube (Youtube.com/user/WellerHospital)
Our YouTube channel will serve as the multimedia portal of Weller Hospital. There, we will post videos relating to the hospital, including the type of work that we do, guided tours of our facilities, messages from our Medical, Surgical, Nursing and Research Staffs. Also, patrons can find informative videos on a variety of health-related topics. These videos would aim to assist patrons in taking their health in their own hands by demonstrating activities and behaviors that they can adopt in their everyday lives. In addition, snippets/recaps of any hospital-related events (our own recordings, in addition to content sourced from other online news sources) will also be posted, allowing visitors of our YouTube channel to gain awareness of our activities.
For example, our Oncology department may post a video showing how to do a self Breast Exam, similar to the one found here: http://bit.ly/gRxesn
Also, our Head Dietitian may post a video aimed at college students demonstrating how to eat healthy on a budget, similar to the one found here: http://bit.ly/dO1wDd
The Weller Hospital Blog (www.WellerHospital.com/blog)
The Weller Hospital Blog will serve as the keystone of our social online presence. The blog is the section that a majority of the content for the other sections (Facebook, Twitter, Youtube) will originate. The Weller Hospital Blog will be unique in that it will be the only part of our online presence that is not solely administered by the Social Networking and Media division. Select individuals within the hospital (The President, Vice-Presidents, department heads, etc.) will also have access to the blog. This access will enable them to create posts pertaining to the hospital and it’s daily operations. For instance, the President can have a section called the “President’s Corner” where s/he can create weekly or monthly posts pertaining to the hospital, including recent events, future events, and thoughts on how they effect the hospital, immediately and long term. A post from the President might read something like this:
Mission Statement:
It is the Weller Hospital System’s mission to utilize the recent advances in the area of Social Networking and Media in a manner that makes the populous healthier and well informed about about the healthcare system, advances in healthcare, and overall wellness. It is our hope that in doing so, we will do our part in increasing knowledge and overall life expectancy for not just our patrons, but the world.
The responsibility of managing Weller Hospital’s new social media capabilities will be left to a team of two to three individuals. These individuals will form a new team called the Social Networking and Media division. The Social Networking division will report to the Vice Presidents in charge of IS and PR. The VPs will work together to help determine the direction that the Social Networking division will take in their delivery of hospital content. The Social Networking and Media division (with guidance from their superiors) will deliver content via Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and a blog. These accounts will deliver noteworthy, valuable content, making them an integral part of the hopsital’s daily operations.
Weller Hospital on Facebook(Facebook.comWellerHospital):
Weller Hospital’s Facebook presence will be that of a Facebook page (as opposed to a normal account, where anyone who is a “friend” of the Weller Hospital page can post comments). Facebook users will be able to “Like” our page. In turn, they will receive updates on the activities of the hospital in real time. The “Info” section of our page will contain a summary of our establishment. This includes our address, telephone numbers, history, specialties, and sponsors. The “Posts” that we put on our “Wall” will contain information pertaining to health news and advice, seminars being held at the hospital, health/hospital alerts, and events (most of which would be charity events towards special causes).
Weller Hospital on Twitter (Twitter.com/WellerHospital):
Like our Facebook presence, Weller Hospital’s Twitter presence will keep our Followers up to date on the happenings of the hospital. Followers of our Twitter account will receive updates (known as “Tweets”) very similar to those found on our facebook page. Followers will also be able to ask questions regarding our updates, in addition to any other queries they may have regarding our establishment. We will also follow other health-related Twitter accounts (Other hospitals, seasoned health-care professionals, etc) and “Re-Tweet” (re-post) any of their updates that we feel would be of value to our followers. The Social Networking and Media division will make use of URL shortening websites (such as www.bit.ly) to aid them in including links to content in their tweets without exceeding the 140-character tweet cap. In addition, we will update the wait time of our emergency room every 30 minutes, giving potential patients a realistic idea of how long it will take to receive medical attention from our staff. It is our hope that other hospitals will follow our lead in this respect, as it would provide patients with a powerful tool that they can use to take charge of their treatment. It also has the potential to encourage hospitals to make strides toward reducing wait times, thereby encouraging competition amongst hospitals. So long as this approach is applied responsibly, patients will come out as the winners (as will the hospitals with the shortest wait times).
Weller Hospital on YouTube (Youtube.com/user/WellerHospital)
Our YouTube channel will serve as the multimedia portal of Weller Hospital. There, we will post videos relating to the hospital, including the type of work that we do, guided tours of our facilities, messages from our Medical, Surgical, Nursing and Research Staffs. Also, patrons can find informative videos on a variety of health-related topics. These videos would aim to assist patrons in taking their health in their own hands by demonstrating activities and behaviors that they can adopt in their everyday lives. In addition, snippets/recaps of any hospital-related events (our own recordings, in addition to content sourced from other online news sources) will also be posted, allowing visitors of our YouTube channel to gain awareness of our activities.
For example, our Oncology department may post a video showing how to do a self Breast Exam, similar to the one found here: http://bit.ly/gRxesn
Also, our Head Dietitian may post a video aimed at college students demonstrating how to eat healthy on a budget, similar to the one found here: http://bit.ly/dO1wDd
The Weller Hospital Blog (www.WellerHospital.com/blog)
The Weller Hospital Blog will serve as the keystone of our social online presence. The blog is the section that a majority of the content for the other sections (Facebook, Twitter, Youtube) will originate. The Weller Hospital Blog will be unique in that it will be the only part of our online presence that is not solely administered by the Social Networking and Media division. Select individuals within the hospital (The President, Vice-Presidents, department heads, etc.) will also have access to the blog. This access will enable them to create posts pertaining to the hospital and it’s daily operations. For instance, the President can have a section called the “President’s Corner” where s/he can create weekly or monthly posts pertaining to the hospital, including recent events, future events, and thoughts on how they effect the hospital, immediately and long term. A post from the President might read something like this:
“I’m pleased to announce a new partnership with Winston University. This new partnership will help to bring both establishments at the forefront of the healthcare industry. I am quite optimistic at the prospect in training the next generation of healthcare professionals. Together, we will blaze a trail that will serve as the standard by which other healthcare establishments are measured.”
Others, may be less grand, but just as (if not moreso) informative. A post from the head of Oncology might look like the following:
“It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Fellows from the Hardiman Institute for Cancer Research. Together, we’ve made great progress developing techniques for earlier detection of Pancreatic Cancer. You can read all about it here. For those of you pressed for time, you can watch a clip from our 60 Minutes piece here.”
A post from the head of our Pharmacology Department would resemble the following:
“As with most things, the difference between name brand prescriptions and their generic counterparts is minute at best. However, counterfeit drugs pose a much greater threat to our overall health. Here are some questions to ask your pharmacist” link to pharmacology news article.
These posts, along with the content mentioned in the Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube sections, will aid our patrons in becoming healthier individuals by making them better informed in all aspects of healthcare, thus raising their awareness of not just the healthcare industry as a whole, but their own overall health in the process.
These benefits however, are only the beginning. Before we know it, we’ll be using the Social Networking and Media division as the springboard for a major portion of the hopsital’s daily operations. Our Social Networking and Media activities won’t be the first of their kind. However, the tight integration and between social networking mediums that we will exhibit will usher in a new age of healthcare. One that will foster more cooperation and collaboration between healthcare professionals/institutions. We will begin to feed off of one another, building upon each other’s ideas, thus leading to innovation through cooperation (and possibly friendly competition). As we embrace our new Social Networking and Media tools, we will make our patients feel more welcome. Welcome to pose better, more thought out questions to our healthcare professionals. More welcome to take charge of their own overall health. The hopsital will eventually be associated with health and wellness, not as a place where sick and hurt people go.
The tools we will have at our disposal will allow us to better educate everyone. Doctors, patients, families of patients, students, the young, along with the young at heart. We will become a hub for health and wellness resources. Potential patients will become more familiar about our establishemt, the services we provide, and the procedures that we perform. Students and doctors will be able more accessible to each other, allowing classes, demonstrations, and seminars to take place more regularly, regardless of location. Family and friends of patients can rest easier when they are more familiar with the facilities and conditions that their loved ones are being cared for under. All of these things will boost the confidence and capabilities of Weller Hospital, thus propelling us to the forefront of the healthcare industry. As such, it would be well worth it for us to pool together whatever resources are necessary for us to make this division a reality.
Project 1: How Hospitals should use Twitter (An Introduction)
How Hospitals Should Use Twitter
PROJECT 1: Using microblogging and blogging technologies: This project requires you develop an understanding of how to use microblogging tools. A content analysis concerning the use of these technologies by Hospitals and Health Care Organizations is required.
Bio: Scripps Health is a nonprofit, community-based health care delivery network in San Diego, California. Opened Account on August 6, 2008.
Scripps Health covers many things in their Tweets, such as answering patients’ inquiries, announcements of new services, promotions for giveaways, and general health advice.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: Last chance to enter! Tell us how u r staying healthy this holiday season & win 2 tix to the 12/4 mens Aztecs basketball game! Ends 12/1.
Dec 1: Should YOU be taking a daily aspirin? http://bit.ly/gIoUPr
Nov 19: New play explores how families communicate during cancer; free performances Nov. 19-20 at Scripps Mercy Hospital.http://bit.ly/9dhG9U
Nov 10: @DanielRoyce This has been received by Scripps Human Resources.
Oct 25: Most doctors are behind the learning curve on genetic tests... Fromusatoday.com, our Dr. Topol contributed: http://usat.ly/dorM42
Sept 27: New Look at Racial Disparities in Head, Neck Cancerhttp://bit.ly/9oXDLD
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 1: Meet Dr Robot. @TIME interviews Dr Mani Menon to discuss how robotics at Henry Ford is changing the future of medicinehttp://goo.gl/eSiYu
Nov 23: Henry Ford Health System introduced free smartphone app to help guide patients to nearest ER or urgent care-download apphttp://goo.gl/lDPcJ
Nov 10: Henry Ford Expands Tech Center in Rochester Hillshttp://goo.gl/fb/crrFr
Oct 8: Henry Ford Sets Goal of 5,000 Organ Donor Pledgeshttp://bit.ly/aCb98h
Bio: The official Twitter account of Alegent Health. Managed by @joshdilo, @meganrocks, @mpjeno and @MikeKasworm. Account opened December 19, 2008.
Alegent Health’s Tweets are mainly annoucement and health-related articles.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: Gratitude is all about attitude - but at the end of the day, it could all affect on your health. http://bit.ly/fWJH1e
Nov 24: Are scare tactics the best tactics when it comes to your health?http://bit.ly/eWlhRp
Nov 11: Learn to recognize the warning signs for concussion and you could save someone's life. http://bit.ly/aNKb1t
Oct 29: From Flintstones to One-A-Days - do we really need vitamins?http://bit.ly/anT0VC
Oct 22: Offering a sneak peek of our new extended hours campaign to our FB fans - log on for your first look! http://on.fb.me/c2GSxs
Bio: Inspiring stories, health tips, and ways to help kids -- from Children's National Medical Center
Children’s Health Tweets to patients and doctors (answering questions and sending out “thank you” messages), announces new services and promote health-related blog posts and articles.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 5: Since our founding #140years ago, we've grown from 12 beds to 283 beds
Dec 5: In 1870, 20 women pledged their support to Children’s Hospital & created Board of Lady Visitors #140years
Nov 30: @drjengunter We do not use auto-follow messages, and we will look into why this is happening. Sorry.
Nov 27: Foster child's history, symptoms a mystery via @johnkelly@washingtonpost http://wapo.st/ejudU6
Oct 26: Thanks! RT @stephenjatdell Children's National Twitter site is testament to how social media can work to inform & inspire communities #hcsm
Bio: St. Jude is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance. Account Opened Dec 4, 2008.
St. Jude Tweets about health-related issues, announcements, answers @replies and followers, but also tweets about non-health topics, such as sports.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 5: The Saints’ last second win puts Markell and @NFLONFOX’s TB at a perfect 3-0! See if they can keep it going athttp://tinyurl.com/23zmlqy.
Nov 29: Check out the great deals at the St. Jude Cyber Monday Sale. For today only, save up to 49% on selected gifts! http://bit.ly/3vq7HG
Nov 25: Happy Thanksgiving from the kids of St. Jude!
Nov 17: Smoking cessation program open to cancer survivors who need help quitting the habit http://bit.ly/cuYA7d
Oct 4: Meet Darcy. She's the Patient of the Month for Octoberhttp://bit.ly/aWj5I2
Bio: Excellent integrated group health care practice. Acct maintained by @leeaase. Following not = endorsement. To request follow, tweet @mayoclinic. Account Opened August 1, 2008.
Mayo Clinic Tweets announcements of upcoming radio shows, events by their affiliated doctors, and encourages followers to ask health-related questions. Informative health Tweets ranging a broad spectrum of topics.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 4: Dr. Petersen says, from a dietary perspective, what is good for the heart is good for the brain. http://cot.ag/gIB1zn #mayoradio
Nov 20: Mayo Clinic Medical Edge Weekend starting now! Tweet your ?s about Diabetes to Dr. Rizza #mayoradio
Nov 19: What do infectious diseases, Hawaii, and Randall Edson, M.D., all have in common? Check it out here: http://bit.ly/8Z726d. -#MayoSTIM
Nov 13: Carpal tunnel is when there is too much pressure placed on the median nerve. #mayoradio
Oct 30: Go to the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center websitehttp://www.mayoclinic.org/ndc-rst/ #mayoradio
Sampling of Tweets:
Nov 4: Texas Center for Cancer Nanomedicine Targets Two Tough Cancers http://is.gd/gNneV
Oct 14: Dr Bart Barlogie myeloma challenge to determine high-low risk at baseline @ http://www.hm2010.org/
Sept 21: UT MD Anderson Brings Anti-Smoking Message to SE Texas At-risk Youths http://is.gd/flr7F
Sept 17: Welcome to new MD Anderson MD's using twitter to spread the word @DrCesarNunez in Pediatrics and @JackARothMD in Thoracic #FF
Sept 14: MD Anderson doctors Stand Up To Cancer | khou.com | Khou.com - Video khou.com/video/featured…
Sutter Eden Med Tweets are sporadic. There are sometimes many in a day, or few in an entire week. Their tweets cover a wide variety of topics, including overall health and wellness, hospital news, discussion starters, and articles from other sources pertaining to healthcare news.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: http://fb.me/N3hEwiM8
Nov 22: It's official! Our new hospital will carry on the name Eden Medical Center. http://www.suttereden.org
Nov 15: The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, November 18th! Make a commitment to stop smoking or if you don’t smoke,... http://fb.me/HWo1vE1E
Nov 9: Eden Medical Center will hold a free Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, November 30,... http://fb.me/INndsXAk
Bio: The official Twitter account of the Columbia University Department of Surgery. Managed by site editor Brad Jobling. Account Opened May 15, 2009.
Columbia Surgery Tweets are quite frequent, averaging at around 10 per day. Their tweets cover a broad range of topics, from particular surgical procedures, awareness of diseases and charity events aimed at curing said diseases, to articles published by the establishment pertaining to specific conditions and advice on how to properly manage them. Nearly all of their content is original.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 18: Is it difficult to control your blood sugar if you have diabetes? http://bit.ly/96Xwa0 #diabetes
Dec 16:
Breast cancer Wellness Series provides strengthening and positive experiences in the fight against breast cancer. http://bit.ly/hujw73
Dec 15: What is transoral gastroplasty or TOGa? #weightloss http://bit.ly/bF0AsK
Dec 15: What is connective tissue disease? How does this affect the aorta? http://bit.ly/cxop3V
Dec 14: Can bacteria from tooth decay or oral infections affect aortic surgery? http://bit.ly/9937IM
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 15: FDA Advisory Committee Votes against Two Drugs for Prostate Cancer Prevention: An advisory committee to th... http://bit.ly/f97wsl #AECC
Dec 7: Lasofoxifene Is Potential New Option for Breast Cancer Risk Reduction: An investigational agent in the sam... http://bit.ly/f1gZgV #AECC
Dec 2: Albert Einstein College of Medicine Helps Address Need for Improved Cancer Care in Rural America: A... http://bit.ly/hZ4Lf7 #EinsteinRSS
Nov 30: Denosumab Approved to Prevent Bone Problems in Cancer Patients: Denosumab, a monoclonal antibody approved ... http://bit.ly/fqwp1B #AECC
Overall, all of these accounts do at least one thing that is good as far as being a useful tool for information goes. The main pitfall appears to be with frequency of tweets. It would seem that most of these accounts could take a page from Columbia Surgery's Twitter account, as they are number 1 as far as frequency of tweets goes. However, Columbia Surgery is lacking when it comes to sources, as just about all of their content is home-grown (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). A little bit of variety would definitely serve to spice things up. St. Jude does a nice job of answering questions posed to them through Twitter. Based on that which I've observed by following these Twitter accounts, a good (i.e. Worthwhile) Hospital account should post on a somewhat frequent basis. Their tweets should cover a wide array of topics, and the sources of their content should be a balanced mix of news links from different (but established, legitimate) origins. In addition, different types of media should be utilized. These include blog postings, websites for special causes, informative YouTube videos, and podcasts just to name a few. Accounts that closely adhere to these guidelines should enjoy great success, and will become valuable assets to their respective healthcare establishment.
PROJECT 1: Using microblogging and blogging technologies: This project requires you develop an understanding of how to use microblogging tools. A content analysis concerning the use of these technologies by Hospitals and Health Care Organizations is required.
I chose to following the Following Healthcare institutions' Twitter accounts:
Scripps Health covers many things in their Tweets, such as answering patients’ inquiries, announcements of new services, promotions for giveaways, and general health advice.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: Last chance to enter! Tell us how u r staying healthy this holiday season & win 2 tix to the 12/4 mens Aztecs basketball game! Ends 12/1.
Dec 1: Should YOU be taking a daily aspirin? http://bit.ly/gIoUPr
Nov 19: New play explores how families communicate during cancer; free performances Nov. 19-20 at Scripps Mercy Hospital.http://bit.ly/9dhG9U
Nov 10: @DanielRoyce This has been received by Scripps Human Resources.
Oct 25: Most doctors are behind the learning curve on genetic tests... Fromusatoday.com, our Dr. Topol contributed: http://usat.ly/dorM42
Sept 27: New Look at Racial Disparities in Head, Neck Cancerhttp://bit.ly/9oXDLD
Bio: We're Henry Ford, We Can. Opened account on December 17, 2008
Henry Ford News Tweets mainly service announcements and health related blog posts and articles. There are no direct @replies/mentions to any patients or followers.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 1: Meet Dr Robot. @TIME interviews Dr Mani Menon to discuss how robotics at Henry Ford is changing the future of medicinehttp://goo.gl/eSiYu
Nov 23: Henry Ford Health System introduced free smartphone app to help guide patients to nearest ER or urgent care-download apphttp://goo.gl/lDPcJ
Nov 10: Henry Ford Expands Tech Center in Rochester Hillshttp://goo.gl/fb/crrFr
Oct 8: Henry Ford Sets Goal of 5,000 Organ Donor Pledgeshttp://bit.ly/aCb98h
Bio: The official Twitter account of Alegent Health. Managed by @joshdilo, @meganrocks, @mpjeno and @MikeKasworm. Account opened December 19, 2008.
Alegent Health’s Tweets are mainly annoucement and health-related articles.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: Gratitude is all about attitude - but at the end of the day, it could all affect on your health. http://bit.ly/fWJH1e
Nov 24: Are scare tactics the best tactics when it comes to your health?http://bit.ly/eWlhRp
Nov 11: Learn to recognize the warning signs for concussion and you could save someone's life. http://bit.ly/aNKb1t
Oct 29: From Flintstones to One-A-Days - do we really need vitamins?http://bit.ly/anT0VC
Oct 22: Offering a sneak peek of our new extended hours campaign to our FB fans - log on for your first look! http://on.fb.me/c2GSxs
Bio: Inspiring stories, health tips, and ways to help kids -- from Children's National Medical Center
Children’s Health Tweets to patients and doctors (answering questions and sending out “thank you” messages), announces new services and promote health-related blog posts and articles.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 5: Since our founding #140years ago, we've grown from 12 beds to 283 beds
Dec 5: In 1870, 20 women pledged their support to Children’s Hospital & created Board of Lady Visitors #140years
Nov 30: @drjengunter We do not use auto-follow messages, and we will look into why this is happening. Sorry.
Nov 27: Foster child's history, symptoms a mystery via @johnkelly@washingtonpost http://wapo.st/ejudU6
Oct 26: Thanks! RT @stephenjatdell Children's National Twitter site is testament to how social media can work to inform & inspire communities #hcsm
Bio: St. Jude is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance. Account Opened Dec 4, 2008.
St. Jude Tweets about health-related issues, announcements, answers @replies and followers, but also tweets about non-health topics, such as sports.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 5: The Saints’ last second win puts Markell and @NFLONFOX’s TB at a perfect 3-0! See if they can keep it going athttp://tinyurl.com/23zmlqy.
Nov 29: Check out the great deals at the St. Jude Cyber Monday Sale. For today only, save up to 49% on selected gifts! http://bit.ly/3vq7HG
Nov 25: Happy Thanksgiving from the kids of St. Jude!
Nov 17: Smoking cessation program open to cancer survivors who need help quitting the habit http://bit.ly/cuYA7d
Oct 4: Meet Darcy. She's the Patient of the Month for Octoberhttp://bit.ly/aWj5I2
Bio: Excellent integrated group health care practice. Acct maintained by @leeaase. Following not = endorsement. To request follow, tweet @mayoclinic. Account Opened August 1, 2008.
Mayo Clinic Tweets announcements of upcoming radio shows, events by their affiliated doctors, and encourages followers to ask health-related questions. Informative health Tweets ranging a broad spectrum of topics.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 4: Dr. Petersen says, from a dietary perspective, what is good for the heart is good for the brain. http://cot.ag/gIB1zn #mayoradio
Nov 20: Mayo Clinic Medical Edge Weekend starting now! Tweet your ?s about Diabetes to Dr. Rizza #mayoradio
Nov 19: What do infectious diseases, Hawaii, and Randall Edson, M.D., all have in common? Check it out here: http://bit.ly/8Z726d. -#MayoSTIM
Nov 13: Carpal tunnel is when there is too much pressure placed on the median nerve. #mayoradio
Oct 30: Go to the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center websitehttp://www.mayoclinic.org/ndc-rst/ #mayoradio
Bio: News from University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Centerk. Account Opened Dec 19, 2008.
MD Anderson News Tweets aren’t very frequent and focus on cancer-related announcements and health information, as well as political legislation regarding cancer and radio shows of doctors speaking. They often RT other Doctors Tweets.
Sampling of Tweets:
Nov 4: Texas Center for Cancer Nanomedicine Targets Two Tough Cancers http://is.gd/gNneV
Oct 14: Dr Bart Barlogie myeloma challenge to determine high-low risk at baseline @ http://www.hm2010.org/
Sept 21: UT MD Anderson Brings Anti-Smoking Message to SE Texas At-risk Youths http://is.gd/flr7F
Sept 17: Welcome to new MD Anderson MD's using twitter to spread the word @DrCesarNunez in Pediatrics and @JackARothMD in Thoracic #FF
Sept 14: MD Anderson doctors Stand Up To Cancer | khou.com | Khou.com - Video khou.com/video/featured…
Bio: Design and construction of Sutter Medical Center Castro Valley to replace Eden Medical Center. Account Opened Nov 3, 2008.
Sutter Eden Med Tweets are sporadic. There are sometimes many in a day, or few in an entire week. Their tweets cover a wide variety of topics, including overall health and wellness, hospital news, discussion starters, and articles from other sources pertaining to healthcare news.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 2: http://fb.me/N3hEwiM8
Nov 22: It's official! Our new hospital will carry on the name Eden Medical Center. http://www.suttereden.org
Nov 15: The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, November 18th! Make a commitment to stop smoking or if you don’t smoke,... http://fb.me/HWo1vE1E
Nov 9: Eden Medical Center will hold a free Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, November 30,... http://fb.me/INndsXAk
Bio: The official Twitter account of the Columbia University Department of Surgery. Managed by site editor Brad Jobling. Account Opened May 15, 2009.
Columbia Surgery Tweets are quite frequent, averaging at around 10 per day. Their tweets cover a broad range of topics, from particular surgical procedures, awareness of diseases and charity events aimed at curing said diseases, to articles published by the establishment pertaining to specific conditions and advice on how to properly manage them. Nearly all of their content is original.
Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 18: Is it difficult to control your blood sugar if you have diabetes? http://bit.ly/96Xwa0 #diabetes
Dec 16:
Breast cancer Wellness Series provides strengthening and positive experiences in the fight against breast cancer. http://bit.ly/hujw73
Dec 15: What is transoral gastroplasty or TOGa? #weightloss http://bit.ly/bF0AsK
Dec 15: What is connective tissue disease? How does this affect the aorta? http://bit.ly/cxop3V
Dec 14: Can bacteria from tooth decay or oral infections affect aortic surgery? http://bit.ly/9937IM
Bio: The Albert Einstein Cancer Center is an NCI designated Clinical Cancer Center, one of the first funded centers and continuously funded since 1972. Account Opened June 22, 2009.
AE Cancer Center Tweets are somewhat below average in frequency, averaging at 2-3 per week. Their tweets are generally related to news on cancer research or hospital news. Just over 50% of tweets are links to National Cancer Institute articles. However, this is balanced out by links to their own site and others regarding the hospital and/or their research.Sampling of Tweets:
Dec 15: FDA Advisory Committee Votes against Two Drugs for Prostate Cancer Prevention: An advisory committee to th... http://bit.ly/f97wsl #AECC
Dec 7: Lasofoxifene Is Potential New Option for Breast Cancer Risk Reduction: An investigational agent in the sam... http://bit.ly/f1gZgV #AECC
Dec 2: Albert Einstein College of Medicine Helps Address Need for Improved Cancer Care in Rural America: A... http://bit.ly/hZ4Lf7 #EinsteinRSS
Nov 30: Denosumab Approved to Prevent Bone Problems in Cancer Patients: Denosumab, a monoclonal antibody approved ... http://bit.ly/fqwp1B #AECC
Overall, all of these accounts do at least one thing that is good as far as being a useful tool for information goes. The main pitfall appears to be with frequency of tweets. It would seem that most of these accounts could take a page from Columbia Surgery's Twitter account, as they are number 1 as far as frequency of tweets goes. However, Columbia Surgery is lacking when it comes to sources, as just about all of their content is home-grown (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). A little bit of variety would definitely serve to spice things up. St. Jude does a nice job of answering questions posed to them through Twitter. Based on that which I've observed by following these Twitter accounts, a good (i.e. Worthwhile) Hospital account should post on a somewhat frequent basis. Their tweets should cover a wide array of topics, and the sources of their content should be a balanced mix of news links from different (but established, legitimate) origins. In addition, different types of media should be utilized. These include blog postings, websites for special causes, informative YouTube videos, and podcasts just to name a few. Accounts that closely adhere to these guidelines should enjoy great success, and will become valuable assets to their respective healthcare establishment.
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