To study how social media could be a helpful tool for increasing patient engagement and satisfaction, researchers created a Facebook group for liver transplant patients to use as a virtual community forum. Family members, caregivers and healthcare providers were able to participate. They found 98% of the posts were reacted to, or commented on, by other members of the group. Patients were the most active users in the group, contributing 64% of the posts and 61% of the reactions. Researchers found "supportive or inspirational content" was the most common type of post, followed by informational posts. After the study ended, participants filled out a survey in which 97% said their primary reason for participating in the group was to provide or receive support from other patients. Caregivers were more likely to post supportive comments than any other kind of comment. Providers were most likely to share informational posts, with 82% of healthcare survey takers reportedly posting this type of content.
NBHC Engagement