Hospital.org.uk - Your Guide to UK Hospitals

Health and medical public relations is associated with internal and external communications between health agencies and organisations and consumers and members of the public.

What do PR professionals do?

People who work in PR interact with a variety of different people in order to present their company in the best possible light. People who work in health PR will interact with health professionals, including nurses and doctors, managers, administrators and patients. Their primary role is to handle communication between the agency or organisation and other people and organisations.

Health PR may involve a variety of different tasks and roles, including:

• preparing press releases

• preparing newsletters and brochures
• writing for internal publications
• handling calls from the media
• liaising with health professionals and managers

Where do health PR staff work?

People who work in health PR may work in a variety of different settings. Their work may be office-based or it may be based in a health facility or centre, including hospitals, care homes, rehabilitation centres, community health centres and psychiatric units.

Why is PR important for health organisations?

PR is very important for health organisations because it bridges the gap between agencies, organisations and the public. It is a very influential part of health communication, which is becoming increasingly important. Health PR is also important for the organisations, as it helps to ensure that they are painted in the best light. PR professionals are also used to promote the company and highlight positive stories, as well as dealing with any negative press.