Medical SEO experts can take a cue from the current global trends in social media networking, which has begun to play an integral part in the lives of many people. The total number of social media users in 2012 is estimated to rise by 19.2 percent over the total number in 2011, translating into 1.43 billion active users of social networks in 2012. This is a compelling fact that no health SEO and marketing expert can afford to ignore.

Naysayers have been predicting a saturation point for social networks for quite some time, but that point does not appear to be anywhere near at the moment. The usage of social networks varies from one place to another, and major differences also exist in the usage between one demographic and another. This is something that healthcare SEO and marketing professionals need to pay attention to when devising their search engine optimization and online media promotion strategies for doctors and dentists.

Perhaps one of the most important demographics from a doctor or dentist’s point of view is the age group of 50 to 64, considering that the largest number of patients may belong to this group. The usage of social networks among people in this age group has risen sharply in recent years. While 20 percent of Internet users in this group used social networking in 2010, in 2011 this number went up to 32 percent. While the “graying” of social networks continues, but Internet users in the age group of 65 and above are still less likely to be using social networking as a tool of communication.

Medical SEO and marketing experts can draw more inspiration from the fact that a study conducted by the global management consultancy Booz & Allen found that an overwhelming 96 percent of all businesses surveyed were planning to increase their investments in social media marketing. With most independent doctors and dentists operating on a shoestring marketing budget, even a small investment in social media marketing can help achieve very significant results and drive more local patients to the doctor’s office.