Yikes! Bad News in Health Care P.R.
Yikes! So many medical mishaps in the news…from Dennis Quaid’s twins getting the wrong drugs to Donda West’s plastic surgery ending in tragedy… it’s been a horrible week for health care public relations.Having worked in hospital public relations for 20-plus years, I know what it’s like to be on the receiving end of reporters’ questions when something goes wrong. Let me tell you, it’s hard to defend your organization when someone has been hurt…badly.
The best advice if this type of incident comes your way in your p.r. career? Most importantly, express your sympathies to those who have been affected. Make it real – not just a “our hearts go out to…”
Mistakes happen, especially in health care. In public relations, you’ll also make mistakes. Just don’t make the unnecessary ones. When something goes wrong, say you’re sorry.
