When I first set out to become a medical writer, I naively thought my scientific background was all I needed. After all, I was a voracious reader, always keeping myself updated on the latest research and breakthroughs.
The medical writing field is constantly evolving. New technologies emerge, and trends like AI writing tools force us to adapt and stay nimble. It’s easy to get swept away in this fast-paced world and lose your voice if you’re not careful.
That’s when I realized the importance of continuous learning. Here’s what’s helped me stay current and credible as a freelance medical writer:
Joining AMWA Was a Game-Changer:
AMWA (American Medical Writers Association) has been a fantastic resource. Not only do they offer access to valuable educational resources and industry updates, but the networking opportunities have been invaluable. Connecting with other medical writers has helped me stay on top of trends.
Building My Network:
Social media has become an amazing tool for learning and connecting. Following industry leaders like Sophie Ash, Lori De Milto, and Alexandra Howson has exposed me to a wealth of knowledge of the latest trends and best practices. They’ve become my virtual mentors, offering guidance and inspiration.
Communities like the Anthill have amazing medical writers, ready to help each other in their journey. These connections have not only provided valuable insights but also opened doors to potential collaborations and referrals.
(Note: I am not being paid by any of them; I am just sharing my own experience)
Continuous Learning is Key:
The medical field is constantly evolving, and medical writing needs to follow suit. I regularly invest in continuing education courses and certifications to expand my knowledge and stay current with best practices.
Staying informed about regulatory updates from governing bodies like the FDA or EMA ensures my writing adheres to legal and ethical standards. Webinars and online resources are great ways to achieve this. AMWA provides amazing collections of webinars and workshops to stay up to date.
Write, write, and write:
I can’t emphasize this enough. Even if you have the best thesis written or you are a natural writer, consistent writing is crucial. I dedicate time each day to hone my skills, whether through personal projects or reviewing award-winning medical writing samples. This helps me stay on top of effective techniques, clarity, structure, and tone.
Tech Powers My Workflow:
Technology has become an indispensable partner in boosting my productivity and efficiency. Reference management software like EndNote keeps my research citations organized and readily accessible. Collaboration platforms facilitate seamless communication and project management with clients and editors. Additionally, grammar checkers, style guides, and plagiarism detection software ensure the accuracy and polish of my writing.
To further enhance my creative process, I leverage large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini for brainstorming ideas.
Disclaimer: While LLMs offer valuable assistance in generating creative concepts, they are not used to produce the final content for client projects. Furthermore, I ensure no sensitive information enters these AI systems.
By being proactive and embracing continuous learning, I’ve been able to stay relevant in the ever-changing world of medical writing. It’s a journey, not a destination, but the rewards are immense. It allows me to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of healthcare communication and deliver the best possible service to my clients.