Social media influences our lives a lot and over the years this has increased, whether that is in a positive or negative way is down to the individual using it. As more and more information is put online it gives people the access to easily search their symptoms and act accordingly to what comes up. This either creates panic or makes someone take no further action even when it is needed or allows an individual to understand more about the symptoms they are feeling, gaining the correct vocabulary to be able to express their symptoms to a doctor.  

Social media can be used to monitor health, which can be helpful for both the individual and their doctor when needed. Allowing patients to have access to medical records and keep track of upcoming appointments.  

The healthcare industry is also helped by social media through the potential it has to increase training for current and future employees working in healthcare. Social media also allows new ways of learning for students in this field, giving access to personal study plans or new training ideas.  

However, an aspect of social media that impacts the healthcare industry is the reviews written by others, this can influence a decision to make an appointment and seek help. This can help the healthcare industry when receiving many good reviews. However, it can also stop people from going to the individual organisations completely, even if the negative reviews have been resolved. Which can have a long-term impact on a patient’s willingness to seek professional help. 

Overall, social media encourages conversations and offers a range of information at any time, therefore there are both positives and negatives to come from the increased access of social media. Offering a space for both patients and those working in the healthcare industry.