The world of the internet and communications technology is rapidly transforming before our eyes at an unprecedented rate of change. Consumers are using online social media to become engaged, empowered, and educated in health care. This transition to personal, participatory health care through the use of social media has become known as the Health 2.0 movement; and if you aren’t already familiar with it— you need to be!
Health 2.0 is changing the way case managers need to connect and collaborate with patients, physicians, and other health care professionals. Social media sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, online forums, wikis, and blogs have become common places for people to share information and form online communities. Consumers are increasingly using social media, not only for the pursuit of health information, but for emotional support as well.
What does all this mean for case management, and how does the case manager fit into the picture?
This presentation will help case managers understand who is more likely to be an e-consumer of health, and what type of social technology and online activities they are most likely to participate in. The information provided will help case managers better appreciate how embracing this type of technology can and will play a big role in promoting self-care, adherence, communication, and knowledge—all primary components of a patient-centered model of care. Special emphasis will be placed on the role of the case manager in effectively carrying out the roles of assessment, planning, facilitation, and advocacy within the context of the Health 2.0 movement to more effectively promote a collaborative, patient-driven, model of health care.