WHO
Amanda Sheldon
Director of Public Relations and Social Communication Medtronic, Inc.| Diabetes
http://www.facebook.com/#!/medtronicdiabetes
twitter: @MDT_Diabetes
POINT OF VIEW
Medtronic’s role in helping people with diabetes through social media
What is Medtronic doing with social media and diabetes?
Medtronic had a recent Facebook launch in April 2012. We share ways and ideas to live a better life with diabetes. Facebook users get their questions answered and share personal moments and stories about living life with diabetes.
We’ve had a blog called THE LOOP for about 1 1/2 years which includes conversations about living diabetes, managing it with technology and one day, closing the loop with an artificial pancreas. We’ve also had a twitter account since October 2011.
Our current social media strategy is around providing tips and resources for the pump and CGM. The goal is to offer the perspective of people with diabetes living different lifestyles in a healthy way to help others with diabetes relate and be inspired. Advanced features and content topics are based on the questions received by our 24/7 call center (1-800-646-4633). In addition, we keep everyone informed of advances in science and research. For example, research on the artificial pancreas is often discussed. We also discuss global advocacy and volunteerism, such as updates from Medtronic’s CMO Dr. Francine Kaufman as she visits diabetes camps in Haiti and other countries across the globe. The goal is to help people across all ages. It is open to readers internationally but since the focus is on the United States English is the primary language.
What is the biggest challenge you feel people with diabetes are facing today?
How to maintain diabetes control on a day-to-day basis. There are barriers, both in terms of access as well as awareness.
What is the goal of Medtronic social media?
It is a great opportunity for people with diabetes to help other people with diabetes connect and share. Medtronic supports these efforts through social media but it is the people with diabetes that really drive the communication. There is no question too big or too small and it is a great platform to share feedback.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
We would love to hear from people with diabetes about how companies, such as Medtronic, can further support the diabetes community. We are open to anyone sharing this through comments on any of our social platforms.
Interviewed by Sherri Isaak, MS, RD, CDE, BC-ADM, Fit4D Director of Content Development
