How to Create an SMS Blast in HealthdeskAI
Overview
SMS Blasts let you send one-time text campaigns to a targeted group of contacts. Use this feature to share quick promotions, reminders, or urgent updates with your clients.
When to Use SMS Blasts
Sending limited-time offers or promotions.
Reminding clients about upcoming events or deadlines.
Re-engaging lapsed leads with a special message.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. From the left sidebar, click Blasts > New SMS Blast.
In the modal, click I accept to confirm:
“Heads up! Healthdesk includes up to 5,000 SMS text segments per location per month, then charges $0.03 per segment over. Overages will be retroactively charged on your next bill date.”Select the phone number you want to send from in the Location dropdown.
Enter your Message Content.
Keep messages concise (160 characters per segment).
Use personalization fields like {{first_name}} or {{last_name}}.
(Optional) Upload an image to personalize your text further.
Review your blast using the Send Test SMS button.
Click Save & Continue.
Choose a Contact List or build a new one on the fly.
Enter a Campaign Name.
Choose to Send Now or Schedule.
Or save it as a Draft.
Pro Tip
You can target multiple lists in one blast. Healthdesk automatically removes duplicates, landline numbers, and unsubscribed contacts before sending.
FAQs
Q: How many SMS messages can I send each month?
A: On the Growth plan, you have 5,000 SMS blast segments included. Overage fees are $0.03 per segment. Use this tool to estimate: Twilio Message Segment Calculator.
Q: Can I personalize SMS messages with client details?
A: Yes. Use merge fields by typing {{first_name}} or {{last_name}}.
Q: Can I schedule SMS in advance?
A: Yes. Select Schedule during setup and choose your date/time.
Q: Where do I see results?
A: After sending, view delivery reports, response rates, and campaign stats by clicking the campaign name from the Blasts page.
Q: What happens if a number unsubscribes?
A: Healthdesk automatically respects opt-outs. Unsubscribed contacts are excluded from all future blasts.
