Pew Internet surveys show that 8 in 10 Americans have access to the internet. Social media use is trending up. Health is holding steady as one of the most popular activities online. E-patients are listening to each other, consulting hospital reviews and doctor reviews, and posting which treatments work for them.
People living with chronic disease are less likely to go online. But their loved ones may fill in the gap.
- One-third of American adults care for a loved one and eight in ten of those caregivers go online.
- One-third of adults experienced a medical emergency in the past year, either their own or someone else’s. They are online too.
- A medical crisis flips a switch in people. It makes them want to become superheroes and save a life if they can. The internet is very often their weapon of choice.
Passionate healthcare marketer with over 10 years of experience I believe that what's best for patients is best for healthcare marketers. I also write a monthly DTC Column for PM 360 Magazine and have written many articles on healthcare marketing in an age of empowered patients.
