How to Become a Medical Writer

Working in the field of medical writing is a lucrative and satisfying career. This role exposes you to writing for pharmaceuticals, journals or general medical writing. Starting as a medical writer requires knowledge of pharmacology, anatomy and physiology to complete writing assignments. Other subjects such as statistics and analysis methods are needed to work with research companies.

• Learn medical terminology. The first step to a career in medical writing should include instruction on medical terminology. Local colleges and universities have a medical terminology course to enroll in. Also enroll in classes in pharmacology, research statistics and analysis. Afterwards, you can learn advanced medical terminology by reading the Federal Drug and Administration website or the Merck Manual of medical diseases.


• Improve your writing skills. Even with a knowledge of medical terms and disease processes, you need sharp writing skills. Further courses can be taken at degree level to improve your writing. It is useful to enroll in courses that allow critique of your writing and ways to improve spelling and grammar.


• Consider a subspecialty. Most medical writers have a specialty that they complete writing assignments in. Examples of writing subspecialties include pharmaceutical, research and design, cardiology and health care technology. It is crucial that you carefully consider the subspecialty you would like to work in, as this is the subject area where you will hone your craft. The subspecialty chosen should not only be a subject area that you enjoy writing about, but also an area you are an expert in.


• Research the employment market. Even after having a job in medical writing, it is crucial to research the employment market for medical writing. This is the time to think whether you would like to work as a freelance medical writer or be employed by a medical publishing company. Almost any aspect of the medical and health care field that needs a writer can be researched for employment. It is also good advice to work as a medical writing intern for a few months to gain experience and a reference on your resume.


• Speak to other medical writers. Medical writing is a field where you can learn a lot from those who are already experienced and working in this career industry. Look in your local area for medical writing groups or meetings that you can become involved in. Professional organizations such as the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) might have a local branch in your city. Use this time to discuss with other writers the advantages of becoming certified or achieving membership in a professional organization.