Long gone are the days that social media was used only by individuals or small businesses.  Even hospitals are beginning to use social media to drive business.

Healthcare providers have found specific ways to use social media websites to their and other’s advantage.  Not only are hospitals promoting their business, as would any other business connected to Facebook or Twitter, but they are also benefitting the well-being of others.

Some hospitals have been using social media to answer any medical questions of their plugged-in patients.  Mercy Children’s Hospital, located in Toledo, Ohio, has been using Facebook to host an hour long chat with online users about specific medical topics each month.  This business strategy is great because it allows both the healthcare provider and the patient to equally benefit.

Healthcare institutions are also using social media to benefit the overall community.  Just as contests have become popular on social media websites, some hospitals, such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, are using social media to fundraise.  These efforts promote business while also giving back to the community.

You can read the full article here.

Review written on August 8, 2011 by Tara Suess, Marketing Intern, eSynergize Online Solutions