I love healthcare providers that are embracing technology and social media. I’m a huge fan of communicating online and recently saw a new general practitioner.  After filling out some brief paperwork the old fashioned way, I was set up to view my test results, schedule appointments, look up my health history and email my doctor. Having been in recently for a battery of tests, I found it incredibly convenient to view most of the results online.  Those tests that required explanation from my doctor were also handled via email (although I had the ability to speak to her if I wanted).

So what’s next?  Will healthcare providers take advantage of sites such as Twitter and Facebook?  Or request recommendations on LinkedIn? So instead of sending a postcard to remind me to schedule an annual appointment I get a message on Facebook?  Yes, there are privacy concerns but I think there are so many options to better engage patients.   It’s all about that personal touch and now more than ever before the tools are there.