Health Care Communication Methods

Health Care Communication Methods






Health Care Communication Methods

HCS/320
September 17, 2012
Sally Franz
Health Care Communication Methods
According to Hicks and Nicols (2012), health communication specialists play a variety of roles, including, but not limited to, developing health prevention and promotion campaigns, serving as advocates for patient and consumer groups, educating members of Congress about health issues, handling health crises (p. 11, Chapter 1). I am the communications coordinator for a national drug manufacturer. Recently, there have been reports of significant negative effects caused by one of our medications that are used by a significant population. News reports have alleged that one of the individuals affected is a well-known public figure. I am tasked with addressing the news reports and the public regarding this situation. Hicks and Nicols (2012) state, “Health communications professionals’ jobs are to make the situation better and to help restore or burnish reputation,” (p. 121, Chapter 7) and different communication methods to use include news releases, web sites, and news conferences (p.122, Chapter 7).
I would employ all of those communication methods to address the allegations of our medication causing significant negative effects. Hicks and Nicols (2012) suggests the best way to deal with a situation stated above is to deal with the problem up front, tell the truth and do not be afraid to be transparent, accept responsibility, and make sure you are communicating within the organization. I would gather all the facts to include having a discussion with the well-known public figure. I would want to know if he or she was willing to discuss the situation in the open.
The advantages of using the traditional media are face-to-face communication takes place, parties can see the verbal and non-verbal communication process, parties ask questions and receive answers, feedback is immediate, and emailing is still a great way to communicate. Lewis...

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