Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

Yes, I continue to use WhatsApp because I have fear of missing out.

Missing out on conversations from my extended family, friends (only about 1/4 use Signal and all groups are on WhatsApp), work (the Health Service in Ireland literally runs on WhatsApp), voluntary undertakings (all of which are organised on WhatsApp), organising stuff for the kids (again all on WhatsApp).

So it's a valid fear based on the reality in my social circle and country. Unilaterally moving to Signal means self-imposed isolation.




> the Health Service in Ireland literally runs on WhatsApp

This part is terrifying: does Ireland not have the equivalent of HSR (UK, in combination with a patchwork of other legislation) or HIPAA?


> the Health Service in Ireland literally runs on WhatsApp

What do you mean? I live in Ireland and no health professional has ever contacted me via WhatsApp.


It's not public-facing. WhatsApp is the primary means of communication for HSE staff (and most of the public service).


Okay, fair enough. But presumably the WhatsApp groups are set up on an ad hoc basis by groups of staff - they're not being directed to use it by the HSE?


No, it's an official HSE communications channel. It was already prevalent before the cyberattack, but at that point, nearly all non-clinical comms moved to WhatsApp.

You just get added to the relevant groups by your manager (obviously there's also unofficial social groups) and that's where you'll get 90%+ of rosters, clinical updates, service bulletins, etc.


Complain, that is not acceptable. Forcing people to be a member of a corporation is not on


Interested in a bit more context re Ireland Health Service - how does this work with older people / those in remote areas?


How often would it have mattered if you missed out on those conversations, say as a percentage?




Join us for AI Startup School this June 16-17 in San Francisco!

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: