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Cecilia Larson: Thumbs Up to Healthcare

The notion of Facebook allowing users to state their organ donation status has drastically influenced the medical field. The primary advantage of for the “donor status update” is making it easier for patients and hospital workers to find probably donors, fast. Yet, simultaneously, this feature also spreads the incentive of enlisting oneself as a possible donor. In a study published in the American Journal of Transplantation, it showed that “the social network gave a 21-fold boost to the number of people who registered themselves as organ donors in a single day” (Castillo). Furthermore, there was a “21.2 percent increase” (Castillo) of organ donors the day Facebook enabled the organ donation option. Ultimately, I agree with Cecilia Larson’s deduction that this option has ameliorated the consumer segments by making organ seeker and donor matching more efficient, rapid and simple.

Despite the numerous benefits of this status option, I can’t help but worry about privacy concerns. There are multiple people uses alternative names and information for social media accounts, making information confirmation between donors and medical facilities difficult.

Yet, on the contrary, an alternative user account name also creates a situation for which patients can limit who are able to view their posts and information. Ultimately those who desire anonymity and assurance of their data are able to contact others without feeling invaded of their private medical situation.

Thus, with the booming social media industry, the incorporation of a donor status for Facebook users has ameliorated the consumer relationships in the healthcare field.

Cites:  Castillo, Michelle. Study: Allowing organ donation status on Facebook increased number of donors. 18 June 2013. 5 October 2014. <http://www.cbsnews.com/news/study-allowing-organ-donation-status-on-facebook-increased-number-of-donors/>.