Role of WhatsApp in Linking the Orthopedic and Allied Department for Updates, Engagement and Education

Abstract

Introduction: WhatsApp has emerged as a widely used communication platform in various domains, including healthcare and academic settings. In the field of orthopedic surgery and allied health sciences the use of WhatsApp has gained significant attention for engaging professionals and sharing updates and academic material.

Objective: To find out WhatsApp's use in technology for engagement, sharing the updates and academic material in orthopaedic and allied health sciences of orthotics and prosthesis.

Methods: We conducted this cross-sectional survey using a convenient sampling technique at the Orthopedic Surgery Department from June 1st to July 18th, 2018. The sample size was 63 participants working and studying in the department of Orthotics and prosthetics.

Results: Out of 63 participants, 54 (85.7%) were male, and 09 (14.3%) were females. When they were inquired about WhatsApp was an easy job than using email, and Facebook majority 41 (65.1%) were agreed, 12 (19.05%) were strongly agreed, 06 (9.5%) were neither agreed nor disagreed, 04 (6.34%) disagreed.

Conclusion: Whatsapp was a good and easy tool that can be used for sharing, update, and engagement for the roster, ward notification and academic material as compared to email, Facebook and notice board.