Nurturing online communities in healthcare professions using a multichannel technology framework
Creators: name: Rajalakshmi Anand
name: Cheema, Sohaila
Publisher: name: F1000 Research Limited
Year: 2023

description: Nurturing online communities in healthcare professions using a multichannel technology framework.<br> <br> <b>Background: </b>Virtual communities (shared networks enabled online) have become increasingly popular in healthcare in the past few years [1]. Research suggests that it is possible to create a sense of community online by facilitating virtual interactions like face-to-face or group check-ins around topics of mutual interest [2]. Structured online communities can foster the exchange of knowledge and experiences, provide psychosocial support and promote learning [3].<br> <br> <b>Summary Of Work: </b>The Institute for Population Health (IPH) at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar applies a multichannel technology-integrated approach to promote healthcare professionals education (e.g., knowledge and/or competence). Examples of IPH’s virtual initiatives for 2022 include a Population Health and Well-being webinar series, Certificate in Lifestyle Medicine course, and email/social media campaigns. IPH hosts health-related content on the IPH website and on IPH social media platforms and uses digital tools such as Zoom (web conference software), MailChimp (email marketing tool) to host databases and Hootsuite (social media marketing tool) to disseminate online health information and build communities.<br> <br> <b>Summary Of Results: </b>The IPH virtual initiatives facilitate the online community by leveraging technology tools. Healthcare professionals can follow hashtags such as #IPHQatar over a choice of social platforms, subscribe to news and updates on the IPH website or via a newsletter, and connect over topics of similar interests during webinars and on social platforms, engage in conversation, pose questions and concerns, and seek answers in real time. Based on topics of interest, members are added to the relevant database in order to deliver personalized content and for the community to grow.<br> <br> <b>Discussion And Conclusion: </b>Creating a database focused on topics of interest is the first step in building online communities. It is important to boost your database and customize the dissemination of content to sustain and build the community for it to thrive. Communication in terms of frequency and type is key.<br> <br> <b>Take Home Messages: </b>There are several digital tools available to facilitate creation and nurture online communities. A multichannel framework is key to create a sense of belonging and advance the value of participation. Paid subscription for some tools may be a limitation as your community grows.<br> <br> References:<br> 1. Vennik, F.D., Adams S.A., Faber M.J. &amp; Putters K. Expert and experiential knowledge in the same place: Patients’ experiences with online communities connecting patients and health professionals. Patient Education and Counseling, 2014. 95(2): p. 265-270.<br> 2. Westermann, F., Doll L., Duprés M., Späth S. &amp; Schweizer-Reis P.M. Overcoming physical distancing in online communities to create human spaces for societal transformations. Journal of Work-Applied Management, 2021. 13(2): p. 197-214.<br> 3. Coulson, N.S. &amp; Buchanan H. The Role of Online Support Groups in Helping Individuals Affected by HIV and AIDS: Scoping Review of the Literature. J Med Internet Res, 2022. 24(7): p. e27648.