Gábor Zacher toxicologist: The healing effect of media appearances
A modern healthcare communication plays an increasingly important role in public services, especially in hospitals and healthcare institutions. Presence in the media serves not only to improve patient care but also to inform the public. PR, or public relations, plays a crucial role in allowing public service providers, such as hospitals, to showcase their work, reach patients, and provide appropriate information to the audience.
The goal of PR is not only for hospitals to advertise their services but also to build an image that helps dispel myths associated with hospitals. In the realm of public services, PR is important not only from the perspective of patient care but also for the professional audience and decision-makers. Healthcare institutions must communicate consciously to gain public trust.
The Role of Healthcare PR in the Life of Hospitals
The concept of healthcare PR is widely accepted among private providers, where classic PR tools are actively used to promote their services. For public service providers, the situation is more complex, but more and more hospitals are discovering the advantages of conscious communication. The purpose of PR is not only advertising but also showcasing the institutions’ operations and services so that the public is aware of the possibilities.
A well-planned PR strategy can help change public opinion about hospitals, which often appear as “ivory towers” in the public consciousness. Patients who are familiar with the institution are more likely to choose it over an unknown provider. Thus, PR plays a key role in helping hospitals reach patients, gain their trust, and improve interest in their services.
PR is important not only for patients but also for professionals and referring physicians. General practitioners need to know where to send their patients to receive the best care. Good PR helps hospitals showcase their professional specialties, thereby making general practitioners reliable points of reference for patients.
Gábor Zacher: Experiences of the Head of the Toxicology Department
Gábor Zacher, the chief physician of the toxicology department at Péterfy Sándor Street Hospital in Budapest, has been one of the most sought-after interviewees in the media for years. His words paint a vivid picture of the importance of healthcare PR, which improves communication not only between hospitals but also between doctors and patients.
According to Zacher, media interest and active participation in the media have contributed to the improved perception of the toxicology department. The department, which was previously the target of negative rumors, now appears in a positive context. Continuous media attention and professional communication have significantly strengthened the reputation of the toxicology department, and they have succeeded in gaining recognition from both the profession and the public for their work.
PR serves not only to inform patients but is also important for the professional audience. Zacher emphasizes that general practitioners need to know where to direct their patients, and hospitals must consciously communicate their services. PR plays a key role in this process, helping professionals be aware of the hospitals’ specializations and capabilities.
Informing Patients and the Doctor-Patient Relationship
Patient awareness and information are one of the most important parts of the healthcare system. According to Gábor Zacher, patients have the right to know where and under what circumstances they are being treated. Proper information not only increases their sense of security but also contributes to their healing.
In the doctor-patient relationship, it is often observed that patients hesitate to ask questions or express their concerns. Through PR and conscious communication, doctors must explain clearly what is happening with patients so that they feel more comfortable communicating. Informed patients can actively participate in their healing process, which is beneficial for both parties.
According to Zacher, PR and media appearances not only increase professional recognition but also contribute to informing patients. Therefore, healthcare institutions must actively participate not only in professional issues but also in the dissemination of public interest information. Transparent communication strengthens the trust of patients, doctors, and decision-makers, which ultimately increases the effectiveness of healing work.