National Breast Cancer Foundation uses SMS to communicate with women

By Giselle Tsirulnik | Originally Posted April 16, 2009

The National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc. has integrated text message reminders for breast exams and mammograms into its platform of services and education.

The addition of text message reminders underscores the importance of the channel in communicating directly with women of all ages on one of the most personal devices they own.

“Think about it this way: A mobile phone is personal, but your health is even more personal,” said Jamie Buelt. “The idea of getting a personal reminder on your mobile phone is really ideal - even for people who aren't normally considered texters.

“The National Breast Cancer Foundation recognizes that if they don't offer mobile reminders, they miss multiple segments of their population, especially younger women and women of color who, according to research, use their wireless phones more than Caucasians,” she said.

NBCF, an organization committed to increasing awareness through education, providing diagnostic breast care services for those in need.

NBCF offers the use of personal mobile reminders for exams, mammograms and appointments.

“The SMS reminder is tailored to personal preferences and needs,” Ms. Buelt said. “Mobile reminders offer some distinct advantages in that more people own wireless phones than computers and they have them with them most of the day.

“You cannot say that about your home phone, your computer or your mailbox,” she said.