The medical writers associations all healthcare writers need to join

Joining a professional medical writers’ association is a fantastic way to stay connected to the medical writing industry, meet other writers, learn new medical writing skills, become aware of important trends and grow your career.

When I was starting out as a medical writer, I joined the Australasian Medical Writers Association and volunteered on their Executive Committee, where I stayed for 5 years. I volunteered as President for four years, finishing up in August 2019.

Through AMWA, I have made lifelong friends, learned so much about the field and discovered that no two pathways are the same.

There really are vast opportunities for work and career development in our small yet thriving niche. Speak to any medical writer and you’ll soon realise that their story (professional background, credentials, qualifications, skills and experience) is quite different to yours – despite the fact we all share similar job titles.

I find the in-person networking events are one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling aspects of membership. Over the years, I’ve met a friendly, professional, intelligent, kindhearted and down-to-earth bunch of medical writers who genuinely care about the profession and helping others succeed. As writers, we spend a lot of time alone and in front of our computers – so getting away from your screen and meeting people in ‘real life’ is healthy and important.

Some professional associations charge an annual fee, while others are free but membership can be selective. Many associations also produce their own medical writing resources and toolkits for members. They are generally run by volunteers and operate a non-profit business model.

These professional associations and societies often run annual conferences and networking events where you can meet other health and medical writers, explore avenues for work and career development, share ideas and get advice from your peers. Members are usually a combination of new and experienced professionals working primarily in the healthcare, medicine, pharmaceutical, wellness and biotech industries as writers, journalists, communications professionals and researchers.

Being a member of a reputable medical writing association is also a great asset for your medical writing CV and shows prospective employers that you are serious about developing and enhancing your career.