My Doctor Follows Me and is a Fan

Just a mere 10 years ago I would have to call my doctor’s office to schedule an appointment. If I had a question or concern I would leave a message and wait for her call back. Now everything is handled on line. I make my appointments, I email my concerns and I sign up for the Practice’s newsletter.

For health care professionals it is somewhat of a dream come true. Even if most patients don’t read the whole newsletter the practice can alert their patients when flu shots are available, introduce a new practitioner, and other health related events.

Events are also a new phenomenon in the doctor/patient relationship.  Free workshops for new parents, nursing mothers, diabetics, and high blood pressure patients are normal practice.

8 years ago my Oncologist’s group invited their patients to a seminar highlighting what was presented at the National breast cancer conference. The first year about 150 showed up. Last week about 350 people showed up to hear the news! This is just one oncology practice!

I asked my oncologist why he thought their event is growing and such a big success. His answers are:

1. Free Food
2. Free Parking
3. Cute or funny graphics dispersed in the power point slides
4. A clear synopsis of the data that is easily understandable
5. Cancer people crave knowledge from a reliable source

My company had an informational table at last week’s event. We were there with various support group organizations, cancer foundations, exercise groups and other specialty clothing companies. I listened to the conference and I agree with my Oncologist 100%. What’s new in the world of breast cancer? I can tell you now with authority. Social media has helped reach a group that 20 years ago used hushed tones.

Here are a few points from the Conference:

1. Daughters should get their baseline mammogram 10 years before their Mother/Aunt/Grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer
2. Start at age 40 to get a yearly mammogram
3. Breast Cancer prevention not only through lifestyle choices but also available through drug therapies for high-risk women
4. Have a risk assessment for breast cancer or breast cancer recurrence

My doctor actually follows my company. She and my oncologist are wonderful supporters of Haralee.Com, and distribute my brochures to many of their patients.

Have you attended a health event sponsored by your health care providers?