How to Create an SMS Blast in HealthdeskAI
Last updated: October 1, 2025Overview
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.
2. 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.”
3. Select the phone number you want to send from in the Location dropdown.
4. Enter a Campaign Name and 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.
5. Review your blast using the Send Test SMS button.
Enter your US 10-digit phone number without spaces, dashes, or special characters (e.g. 9499895830)
6. Choose to Send Now, 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: SMS Blasts are part of our Growth plan, which includes 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.
