Let’s be honest: When I first considered starting a YouTube channel, I was skeptical. I mean, between patient care, building a telemedicine company, and trying to have a life, who has time for video editing? But something kept nagging at me. Initially, I saw so much misinformation out there about rheumatology, and I thought, “Someone needs to set the record straight.” Then, I also thought it would be a way to softly promote my practice.
So, armed with my smartphone and a $20 lapel mic, I uploaded my first video. It was awkward, the lighting was terrible, and I’m pretty sure you could hear my kids running or slapping doors in the background. The first video was a failure, the second one was the same. But you know what? I continued, and one of my videos became viral in a few months!
The Snowball Effect
One video led to another, and before I knew it, I had a small following. Then, in a few months, YouTube generated the first patient who came for an appointment. Then I started to see comments, many positive comments, and I realized my content was making a global impact. No longer was I limited to sharing my knowledge on a smaller scale.
Fast forward to today: over 100,000 subscribers and 10 million views later, I’m still pinching myself. But more than the numbers, it’s the messages that get me. There are so many people across the globe who are grateful for my videos.
Why YouTube? Why Now?
You might be thinking, “That’s great for you, but I’m not a tech whiz.” Trust me, neither am I. My first editing attempts looked like a ransom note met PowerPoint.
But here’s why I think every physician should consider YouTube:
- It’s where the patients are: With over 2 billion monthly users, chances are your patients are on YouTube. And let’s face it, they’re going to look up their symptoms anyway – wouldn’t you rather they get info from you than from “Dr. Google”?
- It’s surprisingly efficient: Remember that explanation you give 10 times a day about methotrexate side effects? Make a video once, share it forever. I now spend less time repeating myself and more time addressing specific concerns.
- You’re already an expert: You don’t need to be a filmmaker or a comedian (though a joke or two never hurts). You just need to share what you already know.
- It opens doors: Since starting my channel, I’ve been invited to speak at conferences, contribute to journals, and even consult for health tech startups. Pro tip: always check the mirror before hitting “record”.
The Unexpected Perks
Now, I didn’t start this for fame or fortune. But I’d be lying if I said there weren’t some nice surprises along the way:
- Global impact: My videos have been watched in over 100 countries. I’ve got fans in places I can’t even pronounce!
- Passive income: The ad revenue isn’t going to let me retire early, but it’s a nice bonus that helps fund better equipment and continued education.
- Staying current: Making videos forces me to stay up-to-date with the latest research. It’s like mandatory, fun CME.
- Connection: I’ve met incredible people, both patients and fellow physicians, whom I never would have encountered otherwise.
Lessons from the Trenches
If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into the YouTube waters, here are a few things I’ve learned:
- Be yourself: Your patients don’t need a TV host; they need you, the same doctor they trust in person.
- Consistency beats perfection: A decent video every week is better than a perfect video once a year.
- Engage with your audience: Some of my best video ideas have come from comments and questions.
- Collaborate: Find other medical YouTubers. The community is incredibly supportive.
- Have fun with it: If you’re enjoying yourself, it shows, and your audience will too.
Your Turn: Join the YouTube Medical Community
Look, I get it. The idea of putting yourself out there can be daunting. The insights of YouTube analytics can be difficult to understand. Learning about SEO ( search engine optimization), how to write a script, or how to edit a video can also seem impossible today.
That’s why I’ve created the WhiteCoat YouTube Academy. It’s everything I wish I’d known when I started, wrapped up in a step-by-step guide. From technical setup to content strategies, from growing your audience to balancing YouTube with your practice—it’s all in there—from a physician who understands that you are a busy physician!
Ready to share your expertise with the world?
Check out the WhiteCoat YouTube Academy and let’s revolutionize medical education together. Who knows? Your “knee elbow” moment might be just around the corner!
