It is thus no surprise that healthcare providers are crawling to the Internet while other industries are racing forward and using the Internet for marketing, advertising, public education, and e-commerce. Only a small percentage of health, dental and vision care providers publish information on the Internet for their patients. Answers to frequently asked questions about the provider's area of specialty. General health and wellness information, optimal schedule for regular exams. Tips for responding in an urgent care or emergency situation may also be included.
Online newsletters provide fresh information for patients to review.
It also gives the patient a reason to check back periodically. The most recent newsletter can be viewed online, with back issues of newsletters stored in a virtual library or archive for patient reference. Hot topics in the provider's area of expertise can be highlighted. Announcements of health screenings can be posted. Some providers may opt to obtain patient email addresses and push newsletters out to patients on a monthly or quarterly basis, reminding them to visit the website, attend a screening, schedule a visit for routine care, or schedule a visit for a popular new procedure.