The healthcare industry is not exempt from the digital age. In fact, it is at the forefront of it. As technology progresses, healthcare companies have been rapidly propelled forward. This is the main reason why the role of digital marketing in the healthcare industry has become even more critical. If your organization is ready to take its reputation and visibility to the next level, then it’s time to implement these healthcare marketing trends of 2019.

1. Engage with Social Media

 

Develop more personalized relationships with current patients and potential patients through social media. By using these platforms, you can engage in conversations, help answer questions and give a personality and unique voice to your company. You can also ask for reviews from your patients to help others in their decision making. Give your company life through eye catching images and interesting stories.

2. Create Compelling Content

 

Content marketing is another healthcare marketing strategy you should be using regularly. By crafting content that is both relevant and interesting, you can gain credibility as a field expert and establish trust as a resource for patients. Content should be purposeful and useful as well as align well with your field. You want to be the best place for them to turn to for information about the subject matter you’re an expert of. One way to do this is by starting a blog and connecting it to your website.

3. Incorporate Video and Video Conferencing Technology

 

Video played a huge part in digital marketing in healthcare for 2018 and has continued to reign strong in 2019 as well. People in general turn to their phones and computers more than ever, but especially to have medical questions answered. How can you capitalize on this? By creating informative videos on popular topics, your search engine visibility will increase. You can also further develop your reputation by sharing unique stories and experiences of the doctors or employees in your organization. Another increasingly important strategy is offering video conferencing technology, bringing the expertise of the doctor right to the patient, no matter where they are in the world. Patients search for that accessibility, and want to be seen as soon as possible. If you offer those services, you’ll be one step ahead.

4. Invest in PPC Advertising

 

According to Google, when someone has a need today, 87 percent turn to search engines to get it fulfilled. This statistic alone indicates how vital it is to have a digital healthcare marketing strategy that includes pay-per-click, or PPC advertising. Not only will you want to advertise on the google search engine for relevant medical and location keywords, but you’ll also want to do some display advertising on sites that your potential customers turn to for information.

5. Introduce Email Campaigns

 

Last, but not least, your strategy should include email campaigns. As part of your information collection, include email as a way to engage with your current patients. You can also include a sign-up form on your website and in your content marketing posts to develop a database. A few great ways to leverage emails are for appointment reminders, but you can also include fun facts, useful tips, contests and even highlight patient success stories to keep your patients connected to your practice long after they leave the office. Email can help build loyalty and keep your organization top of mind as a resource when needed.

Overall, these top five digital marketing trends in healthcare are vital in an increasingly competitive medical world. By building and maintaining a strong visibility, you will not only foster loyalty with current patients, but you will be able to expand your reach and connection to new ones as well.