Breaking into health writing can be a challenge but mastering the art of health article pitches is your first big step.
If you’re trying to create a medical writing portfolio, you may be keen to pitch article ideas to a wide range of publications. The first step is identifying some health publications you can target (here’s a list of 110 websites that accept health article pitches to get you started).
Once you have a list, it’s time to focus on creating a winning article pitch that will grab an editor’s attention and showcase your expertise.
Why your pitch matters
Your pitch is your first impression. It’s your chance to show editors you understand their audience, their publication and how you can add value. A weak pitch gets ignored; a strong pitch opens doors.
Let’s dive into five essential components you need to get your health article pitches accepted, with examples for each.
1. Craft a compelling hook
Your hook should immediately capture attention. Lead with a statistic, question or bold statement that resonates with the editor and their audience.
Examples:
- “Did you know 60% of patients with diabetes face preventable complications? This article explores actionable strategies to reduce those risks.”
- “What if managing a chronic condition didn’t feel like a full-time job? Here’s how we can make it easier for patients.”
- “From diagnosis to daily life: A guide to helping patients live well with arthritis.”
- “Are your readers prepared for the latest breakthrough in cardiovascular care? This article ensures they are.”
- “How can we empower patients to make better decisions about their health? Let’s explore the answers.”
AI tip:
Use tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to brainstorm hooks. Prompt example: “Generate five compelling hooks for an article about managing diabetes complications.”
2. Personalise your health article pitch
Show the editor you’ve done your homework by referencing specific articles or themes from their publication. This demonstrates your understanding of their audience and editorial focus.
Examples:
- “I loved your recent article on reducing stress in caregivers. It inspired me to pitch a piece on helping carers balance their own health needs.”
- “Your focus on women’s health is so refreshing. I’d like to contribute an article on managing endometriosis with diet and lifestyle.”
- “The piece on mental health apps was fantastic. My pitch builds on that by exploring how to select the best ones for chronic illness.”
- “I noticed you haven’t covered paediatric health lately. My article idea addresses common myths about childhood asthma management.”
- “Your publication’s commitment to evidence-based advice aligns with my health article pitch on improving patient adherence to treatment plans.”
AI tip:
Ask an AI writing tool for relevant articles to reference. Prompt example: “Find recent articles from [publication] about women’s health.”
3. Highlight your expertise
Editors want to know why you’re the best person to write the article. Include your qualifications, career journey, experience or personal insights.
Examples:
- “As a health writer specialising in patient education, I’ve worked with hundreds of readers navigating chronic conditions.”
- “With 10 years of experience in public health, I bring a unique perspective to discussing community-based diabetes prevention.”
- “As someone who has interviewed over 50 healthcare professionals, I can provide a balanced view on this topic.”
- “Having published extensively on cardiovascular health, I’m well-equipped to write this article.”
- “As a freelance health writer and caregiver, I offer both professional and personal insights into managing long-term care.”
Template:
“As a [your role] with [X years of experience], I’ve [specific achievement or focus]. This background allows me to [specific value for readers].”
4. Structure your health article pitch clearly
An organised pitch is easier to read and increases your chances of getting noticed.
Template:
- Subject line: [Catchy headline for your idea]
- Greeting: Address the editor by name.
- Hook: Start with a compelling lead.
- Idea: Briefly describe your article idea and its relevance.
- Your expertise: Explain why you’re qualified to write it.
- Closing: Offer to provide additional details and thank them for their time.
Example:
Subject line: Practical tips to empower patients managing diabetes
Body: Hi [Editor’s Name],
How can we empower patients to prevent diabetes-related complications?
I’d like to pitch an article for [Publication] that answers this question and provides practical, research-backed strategies tailored to your audience’s needs.
As a health writer specialising in patient education, I have worked with hundreds of readers navigating chronic conditions, helping them make informed health decisions. Given your publication’s recent focus on proactive healthcare, I believe this article would resonate deeply with your readers and add value to your editorial content.
[OPTIONAL: Add more detail about what the piece will include]For examples of my work, please feel free to visit my portfolio here: [Insert link to portfolio or samples]. I’d be happy to provide additional details or discuss other article ideas that might be a good fit for your upcoming issues.
Thank you for considering this pitch!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Follow up politely
If you don’t hear back within a week or two, send a polite follow-up email to remind the editor about your health article pitch.
Examples:
- “Hi [Editor’s Name], I wanted to follow up on my pitch from last week about [topic]. I’m happy to provide additional details or explore other ideas.”
- “I hope this email finds you well. I’m following up on my article idea about [topic]. Do let me know if it’s of interest.”
- “Just checking in on my recent pitch regarding [topic]. I’d love to discuss how it could fit with your upcoming issues.”
AI tip:
Use AI to brainstorm professional and concise follow-ups. Prompt example: “Draft a polite follow-up email for a pitch about diabetes care.”
By incorporating these essential components and leveraging AI for efficiency, you can craft pitches that capture attention and open doors to exciting opportunities in health writing.
