It seems everyone - from celebrities to moms of all ages - is tweeting, and many in the health care industry have tapped into this networking goldmine that has taken the Internet by storm.Twitter, a powerful micro-blogging service that lets users send and read other users’ updates or “tweets,” has left many changing the way communication happens, and thus, changing the way business happens.

The function of Twitter is quite simple, as it allows people to answer, in brief, the question no one was asking: “What are you doing, right now?” in 140 characters or less.

While many may simply “tweet” minor details of their personal lives, doctors and health care groups are utilizing Twitter as an extension of their Web presence and as a means to connect with colleagues.

From real-time updates about a surgical procedure to sending links to Web-based articles about the latest research findings, health care industry professionals have come to recognize Twitter as an important tool for themselves, their patients and the general public.

Many on the non-profit side of the health care industry are using Twitter to send research updates related to their causes, to support fundraising efforts and to share stories about those in need.

For those of you who fall into the category of curiosity seeker when it comes to Twitter, allow me to de-elaborate in a manner befitting a seasoned “Tweep.”

What is Twitter?

It's a social networking and micro-blogging service that lets users send and read other users' updates known as tweets (up to 140 characters)

What are Tweets?

A Tweet is a message sent on Twitter. It can be formal – “I am happy” - or informal – “I am :)”

Why is Twitter so popular?

It’s simple. It’s immediate. You can send and receive updates on your mobile phone in between your daily rounds. It’s RSS enabled! In short: IT’S EASY TO USE!

How can I start Tweeting effectively?

1. Don’t ask “What are you doing?,” answer the question, “What has your attention?”
2. Have more than one Tweeter at the company. It’s nice to have a variety.
3. Ask questions. Twitter is a GREAT way to get opinions and feedback.
4. Follow interesting people. Find them and follow whom they follow.
5. Tweet about other businesses. Most will return the favor.

OK, I know the basics, how can I advance my business or practice?

1. Share links to interesting things in your community. Ex. @masonpr has great events
2. Be helpful! Ex. Don’t forget to vaccinate!
3. Be wary of ALWAYS promoting your practice. People will tune you out. Share the love. Ex. @Dr. Smith applaud’s Dr.Jones.
4. Promote your colleagues’ outside-of-work stories.
5. Talk about non-business endeavors, too.

Twitter is flooding me with information, how do I know what to read and what to ignore?

1. You don’t have to read every tweet.
2. You don’t have to reply to every @ tweet directed to you (reply to some, but don’t feel guilty).
3. Use direct messages for one-to-one conversations if there’s no value to Twitter at large to hear your conversation.
4. Use services like TwitterSearch to see if someone’s talking about you.
5. Use third party clients like Tweetdeck and Twhirl to manage Twitter.

Health care providers and others in the industry are increasingly turning to this social media site as the number of people tuning into the Internet for answers to their health questions and concerns grows larger. In fact, many health care agencies have integrated “tweeting” into their overall communication strategy.

Given how this networking tool has become a hotbed for providing breaking health information, these TwiTips will put you on the right track with Twitter; however, the online landscape is changing constantly. If you are serious about using the Internet as a venue to increase your business, consider enlisting the help of an expert. He or she can guide you through the maze of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, blogs, and other online tools designed to increase your visibility and share important healthcare information.