KEM hospital plans entry on Instagram, Facebook

The KEM hospital has sent a proposal to the BMC for approval

The KEM hospital, one of the biggest civic-run hospitals in Mumbai, is looking for an instant connection with the masses, for which it plans to build a social media presence.

Civic hospitals have often received criticism for the lack of services and facilities, especially on social media platforms, and negative messages go viral instantly. By joining Instagram and Facebook, the hospital aims to highlight the positive side of civic-run medical institutions.

An official from KEM hospital, requesting anonymity, said, "We want to portray the positive work of the hospital and change people's perception about civic hospitals. With the help of social media, we will also share information about the services provided in the hospital to create awareness. The hospital's apex authority has sent the proposal to the BMC. If we get approval, KEM hospital will have official accounts on Instagram and Facebook."

An official from the civic health department said, "Patients suffering from common and rare diseases are treated at civic hospitals. We have the best and most experienced team of doctors. So it is the need of the hour to promote services and facilities provided by the hospital."

Another official from the health department said, "Not only KEM, but all hospitals must engage with the public on social media. It will improve the image of BMC-run hospitals and also change people's perception about them. Moreover, it will help institutions debunk false information."

Additional Municipal Commissioner Suresh Kakani said, "The BMC is on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and gets a good response. We will see what needs to be done in the context of KEM hospital's proposal."