title: Health crises and media relations: relationship management-by-fire.
abstract: Media relations is an important function in the operation of any health organization, yet it is often relegated as a simple task function. Such an orientation can be problematic, particularly in times of crisis. This article provides an overview of some of the inherent internal conflicts within health organizations that may mitigate against the best media relations practices in times of crises. The article surveys some of the predominant theoretical models used for crisis management, and suggests directions for the further development of media relations and crisis communication theory and practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Advertising and Public Relations, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
authors.forename: Jeffrey K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Springston
authors.forename: Ruthann
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Weaver-Lariscy
mesh_terms: D004630:Emergencies; D008389:Marketing of Health Services / Q000379:methods*; D008402:Mass Media; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010565:Persuasive Communication; D012308:Risk Management; D012941:Social Responsibility