With the right content and strategy, a digital footprint can be turned into an advantage

An event titled “The Digital Media Footprint of Podiatry” was organized by the Podiatry Program of Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). Digital Marketing Specialist M. Taylan Dutluoğlu attended the event as a guest speaker. Speaking about the effects of digital media in the field of podiatry and the points to be considered in health communication, Dutluoğlu emphasized that the traces left in the digital world are decisive in terms of professional reputation.

The event, held at the Yuşa Conference Hall of Üsküdar University Çarşı Campus, attracted great interest.

“Every post made in the digital world leaves a permanent trace”

Drawing attention to the fact that the first impression of individuals and brands is largely formed through the internet, Digital Marketing Specialist M. Taylan Dutluoğlu said, “Today, the first impression of individuals and brands is largely formed through the internet. We now form our first opinion about a person or an institution through searches we make on Google. Every post made in the digital world leaves a permanent trace. When managed correctly, these traces can turn into trust and success. This trace forms our digital reputation coefficient.”

“With the right content and strategy, a digital footprint can be turned into an advantage”

Referring to the concept of ‘cyberchondria’, which is becoming increasingly common in health communication, Dutluoğlu said, “Cyberchondria emerges when individuals research their health problems through the internet and artificial intelligence applications. This situation is both a risk and an opportunity that can be transformed with the right communication. With the right content and strategy, a digital footprint can be turned into an advantage. Corporate identity, logo usage, and having a user-friendly website are important. Every word on a website is read by Google. Therefore, texts and visuals should be structured strategically. If users cannot quickly access the information they are looking for, they may leave the site. Informative content is the safest path in this field. Proper management of online patient reviews and feedback is also very important. These reviews build trust, but responses need to carry a solution-oriented language,” he said.

The ‘Health Communication Regulation’ was also discussed

During the event, the ‘Health Communication Regulation’, which came into force on November 12, was also discussed. Stating that misleading content, statements guaranteeing treatment, and directive advertising language are prohibited under the new regulation, Dutluoğlu said, “The new regulation actually says one simple thing: ‘Do not mislead the patient.’ Obtaining explicit consent is mandatory to share patient photos and visuals.” Dutluoğlu noted that it is possible to produce informative and awareness raising content while staying within the limits of the legislation.

In the event, which continued with questions from participants, topics of interest such as social media posts, criteria for visual use, and influencer content were discussed.

The event concluded with a workshop session.