In this article, we will discuss the Concept of Health Communication. So, let’s get started.
Health Communication
Health communication is the study and practice of communication of health information and education between doctor and patient, which may enhance health and positively influence the individual’s decision to make healthy choices. Understanding the audience for the information is critical to effective delivery. Once the information has been collected, professionals can choose from a variety of methods and strategies of communication that they believe would best convey their message.
Methods of health communication include
1. Individual approach
2. Group approach
3. Mass approach
1. Individual approach:
• Interviews
• Counseling
• Health teaching
• Home visits
2. Group approach:
• Lectures (chalk and talk)
• Use audio-visual aids like flip charts (shown one by one), flannel graph, films and chart.
• Demonstrations (learning by doing)
• Group discussions – 6-12 members (face to face)
• Panel discussions – 4-8 persons (qualified) discussing in front of large audience
• Symposium:
– No discussion
– Each one presents an aspect of the subject
– Series of speeches
• Workshop
• Role playing
• Conferences and seminars
3. Mass approach:
• TV
• Radio
• Internet
• Newspapers
• Printed materials
• Direct mailing (newsletters, booklets, etc)
• Posters and billboards sign
• Health museum exhibition
• Folk media (folk songs, dramas, puppet shows)