As you embrace AI writing tools in your medical writing career, you may have questions about disclosure, ownership and ethical implications.

Being open about using AI writing tools and obtaining your client’s consent is essential.

The question of whether using AI writing tools is ethical comes down to integrity and transparency.

If you are using AI-generated content, you haven’t created the work entirely by yourself.

But if you’re open about that, and your client is fine with it, and you’re not breaking any laws, then does it matter?

We all have equal access to these AI writing tools, and the content is unique.

You, as a responsible medical writer, will be rewriting the content, personalising it, checking all the facts, editing it and adding in whatever you need to do to ensure it fits the brief.

You aren’t going to be using AI-generated content without rewriting, editing and personalisation.

Using medical writing prompts to create AI-generated content or simplify complex medical terms is a starting point, just like a Google search.

And if your clients are fine with you using these tools in your job to help you be more efficient, then there shouldn’t be any issues.

So let’s think about how to have these conversations with your clients and get them on board.

AI writing tools are just like Grammarly

Think of AI writing tools like other writing tools, like Grammarly.

When I discuss my editing processes with my clients, for example, I always mention that I use editing tools like Grammarly as part of my editing stage.

The clients don’t care and are probably relieved because they know the editing process is thorough and there’s another pair of eyes looking at the work!

For some reason, disclosing that you use AI writing tools feels different because of the content generation aspect.

Your client may have their own preconceived ideas about using a writer who is using ChatGPT prompts.

They may think you are trying to get paid for something that you aren’t doing.

But, as AI writing tools do become increasingly integrated into your content creation processes, it is essential that you transparently communicate your use of AI to your clients.

It’s a very important part of your quoting process to tell your clients about how you intend to use these tools, and the extensive amount of manual work you will still be doing, to avoid confusion, justify your pay rates and reassure them that you have everything under control.

Now, I’m going to give you some strategies for conveying the utilisation of AI in your content creation processes, while maintaining transparency, building trust, and highlighting the benefits it brings to the client. Here are some general tips.

Strategies for communicating your AI writing tool use to your clients

Emphasise enhanced efficiency

When discussing AI writing tools with your clients, highlight how these tools improve efficiency, enabling faster turnarounds. Emphasise AI as a valuable aid that enhances your capabilities as a medical writer.

Educate your clients about AI

Many clients may be unfamiliar with AI writing tools. Educate your clients on the potential benefits of the tools and how they streamlines content development. Provide examples of AI’s successful applications in the industry.

Highlight your human expertise

Reassure your clients that AI tools complement rather than replace your job. Emphasise your role in crafting engaging and meaningful content, while AI assists in low-level time-consuming tasks (just like editing tools).

Offer examples and case studies

Present case studies demonstrating AI’s positive impact on content creation, such as increased audience engagement or improved SEO. Real-world examples can help clients understand AI’s potential benefits.

Address concerns and limitations

Address clients’ specific concerns about AI’s limitations, such as bias, accuracy, AI hallucinations or compliance. Listen to their worries and provide solutions to alleviate them. Encourage open dialogue and feedback.

Choose the right communication method

Discuss AI usage with your clients in person, over the phone or include it in your project quote. Consider creating a FAQ document that covers the key benefits of AI writing tools and addresses common concerns.

The final word

Remember: Transparent communication with your clients regarding the use of AI writing tools is essential. By using the strategies I’ve listed above, you don’t need to be scared to have the conversation and you can foster trust and collaboration. Addressing clients’ concerns ensures a successful partnership and project outcome.

Finally, here’s a sample client letter you can use to initiate discussions with your clients about your AI usage.