Are you in a battle with social media engagement for your Virginia medical practice? You’re not alone. This is something the vast majority of health practitioners grapple with, particularly when attempting to forge a relationship with prospective and current patients online.
But don’t worry! Here at Mighty Musketeers, we have discovered the key to increasing engagement with Social Media Post Types. There is so much potential for social media in your medical practice, but the content you share must be something that speaks to listeners.
Well, we’ve compiled a list of 15 Social Media Post Types that can drive strong engagement to boost your active patient base and connect with the people who are interested in what you have to offer in Virginia.
15 Social Media Post Types That Actually Get Patient Engagement
1. Patient Success Stories
One of the most compelling means of involving patients is by sharing personal stories of success. These posts provide you with a venue to showcase the beneficial aspects of your services or treatments.
- Post Example: “This is Sarah – she’s a recent patient who regained mobility in her knee after coming to us!” Here’s her journey to recovery.”
They are also proof that your treatments work and can help to build trust as well as draw other patients in to consume more of the content. Ensure you have the patient’s consent before sharing any stories.
2. Before and After Photos
Before and after images are a super popular concept in the medical industry, specifically photos from cosmetic or surgical procedures. These posts express the outcomes of your efforts, so that potential patients can feel assured about considering your practice.
- Post Example: “See what you can achieve with our lipo treatment! The transformation is incredible.”
Be sure to get the patient’s consent and never post photos that compromise patient privacy or do not comply with HIPAA laws.
3. Behind-the-Scenes Content
Patients love behind-the-scenes peeks at how your practice works. Featuring your team, office, and what you do on a daily basis will help make people remember the face behind the practice.
- Post Example: “A little behind-the-scenes at our clinic today. Dr. Smith is getting ready for what could be another successful knee replacement surgery!”
Behind-the-scenes creates a more down-to-earth impression of your practice.
4. Health Tips and Advice
Post some helpful health tips and advice that are applicable to the needs of your patients. That could be things like diet recommendations for people with common ailments.
- Post Example: “Do you suffer from back pain? Perform these 5 easy stretches to ease the discomfort.”
These are the kinds of personal opinions that demonstrate your experience, educates and provoke feedback from your audiences.
5. Patient Polls and Surveys
Question and interact with your patients via polls or surveys. This not only fosters engagement but also offers some insight into what your patients are interested in.
- Sample Post: “What’s the top health issue that you are dealing with at this moment? Let us know by voting below!”
Polls are quick and easy for followers to participate in, and they give patients a sense that their opinions count.
6. Educational Infographics
Infographics are one of the best ways to communicate complicated medical information in an accessible, digestible form. They look pretty and are great for Instagram.
- Post example: “Did you know that 1 in 4 people will suffer from back pain at some point in their life? Here are some facts and tips for how to stop it.”
Infographics are incredibly shareable and can add a lot to your practice’s visibility and engagement.
7. Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
Acknowledge big moments. Celebrate big moments, such as the anniversary of your practice or a significant staff achievement, as well as patient anniversaries. This kind of post is a testament to your growth and devotion to providing quality care for your patients.
- Post Example: “Happy 10 years of service to the Alexandria community! We appreciate your business, and we are glad you chose us!
These are posts that will help you build a good reputation and make your followers feel like they’re a part of your journey.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Responding to frequent inquiries via posts not only educates your audience but also encourages them to engage with comments on future questions.
- All right, next post: “Q: What is the recovery time after a knee replacement surgery? A: There is wide variation, but in general, patients are walking within 6-8 weeks!
These are the types of questions that really help generate discussion and engagement with your patients.
9. Interactive Quizzes
Share some awesome/interesting quizzes about health. These may be interesting for your followers, and also offer a window into their own health knowledge.
- Post Example: “What actually do you know about heart health? Take our quiz to find out!”
Quizzes are active and encourage followers to interact with your content by sharing their results.
10. Seasonal Health Advice
One way to do that is by crafting content around each season’s health concern, whether it be the flu, allergies, or staying healthy during summer. This keeps your content up with the times.
- Post Example: “The flu is here. Here’s a guide to how to protect yourself and your family this winter.”
Current content keeps your posts up-to-date and in line with what your audience is thinking about at the time.
11. Motivational Quotes
People dig a good dose of inspiration! Post motivational/positive quotes about health and well-being to help inspire your followers and drive engagement.
- Post Example: “Treat your body well. It’s the only place you’ve got to live. – Jim Rohn
Posts like these create a sense of goodwill and encourage the post to be commented upon and shared.
12. Promotions and Special Offers
Got a special offer or promotion on? Share it with your followers! Exclusivity discounts or a short-term offer create urgency and prompt action.
- Post Example: “Schedule a teeth cleaning this month and receive 10% off your visit next time! Call us now to schedule.”
These articles prompt people to take action right away, which results in both engagement and conversions.
13. Live Q&A Sessions
I love the idea of holding live Q&A sessions on your social media platforms to interact directly with patients. You’ll be able to answer questions about treatments, health concerns, or what to do.
- Example Post: “Tune in this Friday at 3 PM for a live Q&A with Dr. Miller on healthy living! Bring your questions!”
Live sessions offer instantaneous interaction, and they can drive up engagement.
14. Patient Testimonials (With Permission)
Sharing patient testimonials (with permission) can make it clear that there are people out there who have had a great experience at your practice. These entries help mold trust and credibility.
- Post Example: “Thank you for your kind words, Jane! We are delighted to have been part of your health journey.”
Not only do positive reviews engage patients, but they also draw in new ones.
15. Health Challenges or Campaigns
Design a health challenge or campaign to motivate patients. These kinds of posts can be fun, interactive, and even viral.
- Post Example: “Take our 30-day walking challenge and log your steps with us! Let’s stay active together.”
Health conditions can motivate patients to engage with and share their results, broadening your reach.
Conclusion
Patient interaction on social media is an important foundation for a successful Virginia medical practice. By posting the right types of content, such as patient success stories, health advice, interactive polls and behind-the-scenes posts, you are keeping your followers connected and helping attract new patients. We specialize in assisting medical practices in producing social media that resonates with patients and increases their online presence.
FAQ
How often should I post on social media to maintain engagement?
We suggest publishing 3-4 times a week to ensure you remain visible and continue engaging with your followers on a regular basis.
Can I use patient photos on social media?
Yes, but you do need to get written consent from the patient before you post any photos or videos involving them.
What should I do if a patient shares personal health information in a comment?
You should delete the comment and advise the patient of your privacy policy for HIPAA compliance.
How can I track the effectiveness of my posts?
Leverage social media analytics platforms such as Facebook Insights or Instagram Analytics to track engagement, reach, and conversions.
Can I promote my services through social media posts?
Yes, to the extent that it’s in a noninvasive way. Concentrate on valuable content and straightforward calls-to-action for the services you offer.
