As health care communicators and PR pros, we don’t always see so clearly how our information about new treatments and research findings impacts the general public. But the benefit becomes clear in interactions with patients and physicians who say they saw new patients based on a news release, media story or an article about their work. 

An emotional hug from a grateful heart surgery patient confirmed that I was successful in my mission to provide health information that people want and need. While I didn’t perform this man’s minimally invasive bypass surgery, my video interview with his surgeon posted on YouTube helped him learn about the procedure and have confidence in the surgeon and medical center — so much so that he decided to travel to Baltimore from another state.

In my long career, I have had the privilege of witnessing the impact of our work many times, and it has always inspired me to do more and find new ways of reaching audiences who could benefit from the information. 

Medical science evolves every day. There are always new things to communicate to improve people’s lives.  It’s why I have loved my career.  I guess that’s what people call “finding your why.” 

What has made you realize that your career mission has been impactful to others? Please comment and feel free to share this article.