Write Medicine

Are you a freelance CME writer juggling too many project types and wondering if it's time to finally “niche down”? In the world of continuing medical education (CME), clarity and focus aren't just nice to have—they're essential for sustainable business growth. If you're feeling stretched thin, jumping between clients and therapeutic areas, this episode explores how finding a niche can reduce overwhelm, streamline your process, and even attract the kinds of clients who value what you do most. Here's what you'll gain from this episode: A practical definition of what a niche is—and what it isn't—so you can stop second-guessing yourself. Examples of how different niches can emerge from your background, preferences, or even your favorite types of client relationships. A step-by-step approach to experimenting your way into a niche, without the pressure to get it “perfect” from the start. Tune in now to learn how niching can simplify your business, supercharge your marketing, and help you find work that truly energizes you. LINKS Grab the Niche Discovery Checklist Signup for Summer Script Camp If you are looking for ongoing CME content strategy tips, tools, and tactics, subscribe to the Write Medicine Insider newsletter. Get TextExpander

How can continuing education break down professional silos and foster real collaboration among healthcare teams? If you create CME/CE content, you've likely encountered the challenge of writing for “teams” that still operate in silos. This episode with interprofessional education expert Dr. Tina Patel Gunaldo, Founder, Collaborate for Health, reveals why just using the term “team-based care” isn't enough—and how content creators can more accurately reflect the evolving nature of healthcare collaboration. As patient-centered models expand and asynchronous care becomes the norm, CME professionals need a deeper understanding of roles, language, and practice contexts to design impactful education. Discover the critical differences between interprofessional, interdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary practice—and why it matters for CME writing. Learn how to structure education that empowers team collaboration and respects the unique contributions of each discipline. Understand the growing role of patients, technology, and asynchronous communication in shaping interprofessional collaboration today. And if you're unsure when to use “interprofessional” vs “multidisciplinary”? We've got you covered. We created a one-page Quick Reference Guide to help you use team-based language precisely and avoid common traps in CME writing. It's perfect for writers, educators, and reviewers who want to level up their clarity. Grab the download in the show notes and keep it handy as you create your next piece of content. Tune in now to learn how you can write CME content that reflects real-world collaboration—and elevates both learner experience and patient care outcomes. Connect with Tina Website: https://collaborateforhealth.com LinkedIn Interprofessional Terms Quick Reference Guide

Are you unsure which skills you need to thrive as a CME writer (or need for your writers)—or how to prove your value in an increasingly competitive field? Many medical writers stumble into CME with strong writing chops but little clarity about what the role truly demands. At the same time, education providers struggle to find writers who are not just capable—but competent. This episode bridges that gap. Don Harting and Haifa Kassis join us to unpack the results of their groundbreaking Delphi study on CME writing competencies, revealing what hiring managers really want and how you can grow your career strategically. In this episode, you'll learn: The four core competencies every CME writer should master today Which deliverables are in high demand—and which are vanishing How this competency model can support onboarding, training, and upskilling. Press play to learn how to align your writing skills with what the CME industry actually needs—so you can stand out, get hired, and grow with confidence. Resources Kassis, H., & Harting, D. (2024). Medical Writing for Continuing Education in the Health Professions: A Competency Model. Journal of CME, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/28338073.2024.2422709 CME Writers' Toolbox Delphi Panelists WriteCME Pro: Accelerate your freelance CME writing business growth Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to CME Writing Challenges 00:20 Meet the Researchers: Haifa Kassis and Don Harting 01:19 The Competency Model: Key Findings 02:40 Expert Consensus and Methodology 06:16 Surprising Insights and Real-World Challenges 11:15 Practical Applications and Future Directions 24:35 Emerging Competencies and Industry Trends 28:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

How do we create continuing education that prepares clinicians to deliver life-changing diagnoses with both precision and compassion?In this episode, we explore what happens when the scientist's role as a communicator intersects with the lived experience of parenting a child with a rare disease. I'm talking with Dr. Jennifer Brown, a geneticist who recently published a memoir, When the Baby is not OK: Hopes and Genes, based on her experience of parenting children diagnosed with PKU through newborn screening. For CME professionals, this episode is a call to rethink how we center narrative, ethics, and emotional intelligence in our content, especially when evidence alone isn't enough to support meaningful patient care. Learn how outdated narratives and clinical language can alienate patients—and how reframing them can build trust and support retention in care. Hear why integrating lived experience into CME is essential for designing education that resonates beyond the exam room. Discover how personal storytelling, ethical reflection, and patient advocacy can enrich data-driven CME writing. ▶️ Press play to discover how Dr. Jennifer Brown's dual lens—as a geneticist and parent—can sharpen your skills as a more empathetic, informed CME professional. Connect with Jennifer LinkedIn Goodreads  Author Site Bluesky YouTube

CME professionals, medical writers, educators, and researchers - what would you do if PubMed suddenly became less accessible? You depend on this critical resource daily to find evidence-based information that powers your work. But recent funding uncertainties at the NIH have raised questions about its future. You need consistent, reliable access to quality biomedical research to meet deadlines and maintain credibility, but navigating alternatives can feel overwhelming. Where would you even begin if your go-to resource is compromised? Today's episode is your insurance policy. My conversation with medical librarian Rachel Wedeward MLIS, AHIP reveals not only why PubMed matters, but also provides you with practical alternatives, including a downloadable resource sheet, and evaluation strategies to ensure you'll never be left without the research you need - no matter what happens. In this episode, you'll discover: The remarkable infrastructure behind PubMed's indexing system that makes it an indispensable tool for organizing and accessing biomedical research A comprehensive overview of complementary resources, including European PubMed Central and specialized databases that can enhance your research approach Practical wisdom for evaluating evidence quality Listen now to expand your research toolkit with expert knowledge that will help you confidently navigate the evolving landscape of medical information resources. Connect with Rachel Website LinkedIn

Have you ever wondered what it actually takes to go from “interested in CME writing” to running a thriving, sustainable business? In this final episode of the CME Writing Success Blueprint series, I'm tying everything together—because mastering individual skills is only part of the equation. What really creates success is integration. Whether you're transitioning from academia, clinical practice, or general medical writing, you'll walk away with a clear picture of how to turn your curiosity into a high-impact freelance career. Listen in to learn: A practical breakdown of the ROADMAP Framework—the 7 pillars for building a CME writing business from the ground up How to translate your existing skills into profitable client work—even if you're just getting started What a thriving CME writing business actually looks like (spoiler: it's about confidence, consistent income, and creative freedom)

Are you trying to figure out CME writing all on your own—and wondering why it feels so hard to make real progress? If you're navigating the world of freelance medical writing, especially in the niche of continuing medical education (CME), you might be feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or isolated. In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest reasons many freelancers stall: trying to build a business without support. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow strategically, this episode offers insight into how mentorship and peer community can transform your path. Here's what you'll gain from listening: Clarity on why going solo slows your growth—and how guidance can shorten the learning curve. Real-world examples of how mentorship delivers personalized feedback, industry insight, and opportunities you won't find on Google. A deep dive into the power of peer community for accountability, emotional support, and confidence-building collaboration. Tune in now to discover how mentorship and community can fast-track your CME writing success—and help you build a career that's sustainable, supported, and fulfilling.

Are you a talented medical writer struggling to turn your CME skills into a profitable business? In this episode of Write Medicine, we pull back the curtain on the business side of CME writing—where creativity meets commerce. You'll learn what seasoned freelancers wish they'd known sooner: how to set your rates with confidence, where to find ideal clients, and what systems you need to run a professional, low-stress writing business. Imagine working with clients who respect your time, value your expertise, and pay you what you're worth. With the right pricing models and a clear plan, you can transform your freelance CME writing hustle into a thriving, sustainable business. Listen now to learn how to elevate your CME writing practice from freelance fatigue to freelance freedom. And if you're ready to dive deeper, register for my free upcoming workshop—CME Writing Success Formula. Details below. Resources Save Your Spot →

Are self-doubt and imposter syndrome stopping you from breaking into CME writing, even though you have valuable skills to offer? Many aspiring CME writers struggle with confidence, especially when they lack clinical backgrounds. This episode addresses the "confidence paradox" - needing experience to gain confidence, but requiring confidence to get that experience - and provides practical strategies to break this cycle so you can successfully position yourself in the CME writing field. From this episode, you'll learn: How to identify and leverage your transferable skills that are directly applicable to CME writing Practical approaches to building a targeted CME portfolio, even without extensive industry experience Five confidence-building strategies that successful CME writers use to overcome self-doubt Listen now to transform your mindset from "I don't know enough" to becoming a confident CME writer that clients trust and want to work with. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:29 The Confidence Paradox in CME Writing 03:43 Identifying Your Transferable Skills 07:58 Building Your CME Writing Portfolio 11:28 Practical Strategies for Building Confidence 14:54 Conclusion and Next Steps Join the WriteCME Accelerator waitlist Grab the CME Skills Inventory worksheet

Are you struggling to understand how the CME industry works—who creates it, how it's funded, and where freelance medical writers fit in? If breaking into CME writing feels like a mystery, this episode will give you the clarity you need. Navigating the CME ecosystem can be overwhelming for new writers. Understanding the industry structure, key players, and content types is essential to positioning yourself for success. This episode breaks down the CME landscape so you can confidently find your place and start building your career. Learn how the CME industry operates, from accreditation to funding sources, so you can target the right opportunities. Discover the different types of CME content you can write, from needs assessments to microlearning, and identify the best fit for your skills. Understand how to position yourself in the ecosystem, connect with accredited providers, and begin your journey into CME writing. If you're ready to cut through the confusion and confidently step into CME writing, press play now and explore where you fit in this thriving industry. Join the WriteCME Accelerator waitlist Grab the CME Ecosystem Map

Have you ever wondered if medical writing could be a fulfilling and financially rewarding career path? If so, how do you know whether continuing medical education (CME) writing is the right specialty for you? CME writing is a thriving niche that allows writers to contribute to evidence-based education for healthcare professionals while building a sustainable freelance business. However, breaking into CME can feel overwhelming—What does it involve? Do you need a medical background? How do you get started? In this episode, we clear up the confusion and help you determine whether CME writing aligns with your skills, interests, and professional goals. Discover what CME writing entails and how it differs from other types of medical writing. Learn about the diverse professional backgrounds that transition well into CME writing, from researchers and science communicators to clinicians and educators. Gain clarity on whether your skills, work preferences, and interests align with the demands and opportunities in this specialized field. If you're curious about CME writing and want to explore how to break into this rewarding field, tune in now and take the first step toward building a fulfilling writing career. Join the waitlist for WriteCME Accelerator

Do you ever feel like you're navigating your career in CME alone, unsure of where you fit in or how to grow without burning out? Many CME professionals work independently or remotely, which can be both rewarding and isolating. Beyond professional networks, building a true community can provide the support, engagement, and inspiration needed to thrive in this field. In this episode, we explore why community matters in CME, how it enhances career growth and well-being, and practical steps you can take to create meaningful connections. Discover how a strong professional community can boost your career and well-being. Understand the key elements that define a thriving professional community. Learn practical ways to engage in and build a community that supports your growth in CME. Listen now to uncover the power of community in CME and learn how to cultivate meaningful professional connections that will support your long-term success. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Navigating the CME Field Alone 00:48 The Importance of Community in CME 01:50 Defining Community and Its Elements 02:38 Personal Experiences of Belonging 03:50 Shared Values and Mutual Support in CME 05:08 Networks vs. Communities 06:29 Benefits of Community for CME Professionals 10:19 Practical Steps to Engage in Community 11:01 Conclusion and Next Steps Next WriteCME Accelerator Cohort is May, 2025. Join the Waitlist.

What would happen if the go-to resource for your CME research—PubMed—became unreliable or inaccessible? Would your workflow survive the disruption? As CME professionals, we depend on PubMed for high-quality, evidence-based research. But with looming funding changes it's time to rethink how we source medical literature. This episode unpacks the latest developments and gives you a proactive plan to safeguard your research process. Learn why PubMed's future is uncertain and what that means for CME professionals. Discover alternative medical research tools that can fill the gaps if PubMed access is disrupted. Get expert-backed strategies to diversify your literature search and stay ahead of potential research barriers. Hit play now to future-proof your CME research strategy and ensure uninterrupted access to high-quality medical literature! Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of PubMed for CME Professionals 00:32 Potential Threats to PubMed 02:21 Speculative Changes and Their Implications 02:40 Preparing for Potential Disruptions 03:03 Alternative Research Tools and Strategies 04:06 Staying Informed and Connected 04:26 Conclusion and Call to Action Resources Europe PMC – A free resource for accessing biomedical literature, serving as an alternative to PubMed. Wayback Machine – A digital archive that allows retrieval of past versions of web pages, including government health pages. DeepDyve – A subscription-based service that archives PubMed files daily and provides access to research papers. EU Clinical Trials Register – A database of clinical trials conducted in Europe, cross-referenced with ClinicalTrials.gov. Leave a voice note for Alex

How can continuing education transform nursing practice, reduce burnout, and empower nurses to advocate for themselves? Nurses are essential to patient care, yet many struggle with limited access to high-quality education, workplace advocacy, and professional development. As CME professionals and medical writers, we have the power to create learning experiences that not only enhance clinical skills but also support nurse well-being and retention. In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of nursing education with two leaders from the American Nurses Association (ANA), exploring how we can design more impactful, outcomes-driven education for nurses. Discover how the 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses is reshaping professional development and why it matters for your CME programs. Learn how continuing education directly combats burnout and improves nurse retention—and what that means for healthcare organizations. Gain insights into the challenges of funding and implementing nurse education, and strategies to advocate for protected education budgets. Press play now to learn how you can contribute to the future of nursing education and design CE programs that truly make a difference! Abbreviations Here are the acronyms mentioned in the episode along with their full forms: ANA – American Nurses Association CNE – Continuing Nursing Education CMS – Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services CE – Continuing Education CME – Continuing Medical Education APP – Advanced Practice Provider DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice PPE – Personal Protective Equipment PHI – Protected Health Information PI – Personal Information LACE – Licensure, Accreditation, Certification, and Education GME – Graduate Medical Education OPP – Organizational Practice Policies AAPA – American Academy of Physician Associates LACE – Licensure, Accreditation, Certification, and Education Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Nursing Education Challenges 00:40 Meet the Experts: Dr. Jennifer Shepard and Dr. Sean de Garmo 01:54 The 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses 08:02 Addressing Gaps in Nursing Education 10:41 The Importance of Continuing Education in Combating Burnout 16:40 Advocating for Nursing Education and Professional Development 24:04 Outcomes-Based Education and Interdisciplinary Collaboration 34:50 Conclusion: The Lifeline of Continuing Education

What happens when the data you rely on for CME content suddenly disappears? CME depends on credible, transparent data to inform healthcare professionals and improve patient outcomes. But new policy shifts have restricted access to essential sources, leaving medical writers scrambling for alternatives. Without these data points, how can we continue producing accurate, impactful education? This episode explores how to navigate these challenges and source reliable evidence for CME content. Tune in to learn where to find alternative, credible health data sources beyond federal agencies. Don't let disappearing data derail your CME planning. Resource Grab your link to a living spreadsheet of alternative data and evidence sources. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Disappearing Public Health Data 01:20 Impact of Data Removal on Public Health 05:40 Alternative Data Sources for CME Professionals 09:33 Actionable Steps for CME Professionals 10:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

Is private equity's growing influence in continuing medical education changing the quality of learning in the health professions? As a CME professional, you need to navigate an increasingly complex funding landscape where commercial support has dropped, and private equity firms are rapidly acquiring education providers. Understanding these shifts is crucial for developing sustainable, high-quality educational programs and navigating your way as a CME professional. In this episode, we'll explore: How CME funding has evolved from primarily university-based to a complex mix of commercial support, registration fees, and private investment Why private equity firms are acquiring CME providers and what this means for content development Key strategies for maintaining educational quality and professional relationships in an environment of frequent mergers and acquisitions Listen now to gain insights into the $4.23 billion CME industry's funding transformation and position yourself for success in this rapidly changing landscape. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Art of Hustling Pool and CME 00:54 AI Bootcamp for Medical Writers 01:32 The Complex Financial Side of CME 02:06 Evolution of CME Funding 02:42 Pharmaceutical Influence and Regulations 05:47 The Impact of Compliance and Regulatory Codes 07:06 Current CME Funding Landscape 08:21 Private Equity in CME 10:48 Challenges and Questions for CME Professionals 12:08 Conclusion: Ensuring Educational Quality Resources Ratnasekera A, Impact of private equity on graduate medical education: A slippery slope. Am J Surg. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjsurg.2024.116160 ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Continuing Education (2020) ACCME Data Report. Thriving Through Growth and Innovation—2023. ACCME. Toolkit for the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education

What if everything we believe about driving change in healthcare education is fundamentally wrong - and AI might be making it worse? As healthcare education rapidly embraces AI and digital transformation, you're likely grappling with crucial decisions about how to integrate new technologies while ensuring your programs remain equitable and effective. The latest Alliance for Continuing Education in Health Professions conference keynotes reveal surprising insights about AI bias, observation skills, and behavior change that challenge conventional approaches to CME program design. • Discover concrete strategies to identify and address AI bias in your educational programs, including a practical checklist for evaluating AI integration in healthcare education • Learn how art history methods can dramatically improve clinical observation skills through specific techniques like "close looking" and formal analysis • Master the science of "complex contagion" to design more effective peer learning networks, backed by new research showing networked physician groups make significantly fewer diagnostic errors Listen now to transform your CME programs with evidence-based insights from Dr. Immani Shephard, Dr. Siobhan Conaty, and Dr. Damon Centola on AI ethics, clinical observation, and driving meaningful change in healthcare education. Resources Glickman, M., Sharot, T. How human–AI feedback loops alter human perceptual, emotional and social judgements. Nat Hum Behav (2024).

In this episode of Write Medicine, I speak with Ginny Jacobs, Principal of Quality Catalyst Group, about the necessary disruption happening in continuing medical education (CME). Drawing from her recent co-authored Almanac article, Ginny discusses four major shifts in the field and what they mean for CME professionals. Four Major Shifts in CME: Increased use of technology, including artificial intelligence Evolution in the science of learning and cognitive load Technology utilization for clinical practice relevance Development of adaptive and collaborative models across disciplines Key Takeaways: Data collection and analysis remain significant challenges for many CME organizations The importance of "unlearning" outdated approaches while maintaining what works Strategic alignment with organizational priorities is crucial for success The field must evolve from episodic learning to sustainable, data-driven approaches Looking Ahead: Need for more systematic professional development in CME Importance of collaboration to avoid common challenges Focus on creating nimble educational systems with robust assessment Emphasis on critical thinking and practical application Resources Jacobs G, McGowan B, Paynter N, et al. Necessary Disruption 2.0: A Continuing Education Call to Action. Alliance Almanac. Nov 18, 2024. Alliance Annual Conference, January 8-11, Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando, FL.

Are you prepared for how AI and private equity will reshape continuing medical education (CME) in 2025? As CME professionals face rapid industry changes, staying ahead of emerging trends is crucial for creating impactful educational content. This episode unpacks the key developments that will affect how you develop and deliver CME programs in the coming year. In this episode, you'll discover: How to leverage emerging trends like AI and confidence frameworks to position yourself as an indispensable strategic partner to your clients Practical strategies to integrate patient perspectives and real-world data into your content development process Specific ways to evolve your service offerings and build flexible workflows that adapt to changing project dynamics Press play to unlock your roadmap for thriving in the 2025 CME landscape and learn exactly how to future-proof your freelance business in an industry that's transforming at breakneck speed.Future Proof Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Evolving CME Landscape 00:49 Key Trends Shaping CME in 2025 03:23 The Role of Artificial Intelligence in CME 06:30 Confidence Frameworks and Outcomes Measurement 13:25 Patient-Focused Education 17:38 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) 19:56 Impact of Private Equity on CME 21:41 Practical Strategies for Independent CME Professionals 24:44 Conclusion and Future Outlook Resources WriteCME Pro Finding the Freelance Clients You Deserve Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society FDA's Digital Health Center of Excellence AI in CME Cheat Sheet AMA's Health Equity Resource Center AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) toolkits on cultural competency and equity in medical education. WHO's Social Determinants of Health Framework. CME/CE Market Trends

Are you struggling to balance high-quality medical education content creation with increasing demands for varied formats and accessibility? As CME/CE professionals face mounting pressure to create more content across multiple platforms while maintaining scientific accuracy, traditional writing approaches are becoming unsustainable. Learn how leading scientific publisher Springer Nature is revolutionizing content development through AI integration, offering valuable lessons for medical education professionals seeking to enhance their content creation process. Listen to discover: A practical framework for incorporating AI tools while maintaining content integrity and human expertise, including specific approaches to quality control and oversight Strategic methods for adapting complex medical content for different audience levels without sacrificing scientific accuracy, supported by AI-assisted processes Proven techniques for accelerating content development across multiple formats while ensuring consistent quality and clear communication Transform your CME/CE process by learning how scientific publishing's "human-AI handshake" approach can help you create more impactful educational content in less time. Timestamps 07:44 AI aids in content conversion and audience targeting. 10:36 Encourage AI use transparently for in-house tools. 12:22 Exploring AI support for writing and social media. 17:08 Free research roundups offer interdisciplinary literature overview. 20:57 Novels prioritize style, factual books prioritize clarity. 23:29 Developed LLM prompting expertise with skilled writers. 25:19 Balancing human interaction with scalable automation. Resources We've built a brand new program for you that prioritizes foundational skills, implementation support, and connection. There's a limited quantity of this offer available, so this week we're sharing it only with those who are on our secret list. If you're interested ​click here​ and we'll send you an email with more info. Next week, we'll share the official announcement with everyone else.

Are you turning down lucrative CME writing opportunities because you're unsure how to handle client conversations about pricing, research access, or expanding your services? As a CME writer, you know the challenge of building a sustainable business isn't just about writing skills - it's about making smart decisions about which projects to take, how to access resources, and when to specialize. From negotiating research access fees to breaking free from the needs assessment cycle, every decision impacts your growth potential. In this episode, I take you inside a real CME writers' strategy session where we tackle these exact challenges head-on. By listening to this episode, you will: • Learn proven strategies for handling awkward client conversations about project scope and resource access without damaging relationships • Discover how to leverage your expertise in one area (like needs assessments) to expand into new opportunities while maintaining your current client base • Master the art of responding confidently to questions about therapeutic specialties while keeping doors open for diverse opportunities Press play now to get an unfiltered look at how experienced CME writers navigate real business challenges and come away with practical strategies you can implement in your next client conversation. Resources Howson A. WriteCME Roadmap: How to Thrive in CME with No Experience, No Network, and No Clue. 2024. Tilt Publishing. WriteCME Roadmap Launch Party For tips on getting around publishing paywalls see How to write a literature review

Do you struggle to transform dense medical information into scripts that sound natural when read aloud in videos or podcasts? As a medical writer or CME professional, you know the challenge of bridging the gap between technical accuracy and listener engagement. Your scripts need to convey complex scientific concepts while maintaining clarity and holding the audience's attention. This balancing act can feel like an insurmountable task, especially when you're writing for diverse audiences from patients to specialists. In this episode of Write Medicine, voice actor Emma Clarke shares invaluable insights that will help you: 1. Master the art of writing for the spoken word in medical education 2. Learn techniques to make dense scientific content more accessible and engaging when read aloud 3. Understand the crucial elements of pacing, clarity, and pronunciation in voiceover scripts Tune in now to unlock the secrets of crafting medical voiceover scripts that inform, engage, and inspire your audience. Connect with Emma

Are you a freelance medical writer struggling to streamline your workflow and grow your business? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by client management, marketing, and the constant need to prove your value? If you're looking to transform your freelance medical writing career from chaotic to confident, especially in the field of Continuing Medical Education, this episode is for you. Today Alejandra Viviescas PhD joins me to explore practical strategies that can transform your approach to client relationships, help you overcome self-doubt, and build a thriving business. By listening to this episode, you will: Learn how to implement a client acquisition flywheel that turns each project into a marketing opportunity Discover how to use checklists and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline your workflow and reduce anxiety in client interactions Gain insights on how to use your multilingual skills to stand out in the medical writing field. Press play now to unlock your competitive edge in freelance CME writing and get ready to create systems that work for you, not against you.  Resources Jim Collins. The Flywheel Effect. Nathan Barry. Authority: Become an Expert, Build a Following, and Gain Financial Independence. 2014. Aloha Publishing. Josh Spector. How To Create Powerful Content (Without Spending More Time On It). I Want To Know podcast. Alexjandra Viviescas PhD. Flywheel. Ready, Steady, CME!

Are you a new medical writer feeling overwhelmed by the costs of starting your career? Do you hesitate to invest in expensive resources, wondering if there's a smarter way to begin? You're not alone. Many aspiring medical writers struggle to balance their passion for the field with the financial realities of getting started. But what if I told you that you don't need to break the bank to launch your medical writing career? In this episode, we're diving into 12 money-saving hacks that can help you access vital resources, improve your skills, and network effectively - all while keeping your budget intact.  Whether you're looking to find free alternatives to pricey databases, discover cost-effective ways to enhance your skills or learn how to leverage existing resources you might have overlooked, this episode is your guide to smart, budget-friendly strategies for kickstarting your medical writing journey. Sometimes expensive doesn't necessarily mean better. Stay tuned for tips that could save you hundreds if not thousands, of dollars as you embark on your exciting new career path. 1. Leverage Free Resources: From PubMed and Google Docs to public libraries and government health websites, there's a wealth of free tools and information at your fingertips. Make the most of these resources before investing in paid alternatives. 2. Invest in Learning, Not Just Tools: Focus on building your skills through free online courses, virtual conferences, and skill-swapping. Your knowledge and abilities are your most valuable assets, and many ways to enhance them don't cost a dime. 3. Start Simple and Scale Up: Begin with a basic setup and free versions of software. As your career grows and your needs evolve, you can make informed decisions about which paid tools and resources are truly worth the investment. Resources Write Medicine podcast. How to Streamline Your Medical Writing Literature Review Process WriteCME Pro—a professional development program for medical writers ready to specialize in CME QueText Grammarly MedTerms

Is your CME content scratching the surface or truly addressing the core issues in healthcare practice? As a CME professional, you're constantly striving to create educational interventions that make a real difference. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, the impact falls short of expectations. Root cause analysis (RCA) could be the missing piece in your needs assessment toolkit, helping you uncover the true sources of performance gaps and design more effective CME programs. By listening to this episode, you'll discover: How to apply RCA techniques to enhance your needs assessments and identify the root causes of practice gaps Step-by-step guidance and practical tools for conducting RCA Real-world examples of how RCA can lead to measurable improvements in healthcare outcomes Tune in now to unlock the power of root cause analysis and revolutionize your approach to CME program development. Resources Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Root Cause Analysis. Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Improving Root Cause Analyses and Actions to Prevent Harm. Singh G et al. Root Cause Analysis and Medical Error Prevention. StatPearls. Driesen B et al. Root Cause Analysis Using the Prevention and Recovery Information System for Monitoring and Analysis Method in Healthcare Facilities: A Systematic Literature Review. J Patient Saf. 2022;18(4):342-350

Are you struggling to position your CME program as a strategic asset in your healthcare system? As a CME professional in a hospital or health system, you're likely facing challenges in demonstrating the value of your programs beyond mere accreditation requirements. You know that CME has the potential to drive quality improvement and enhance patient care, but you may be finding it difficult to integrate your efforts with broader organizational goals. In this episode of Write Medicine, you'll discover: How to position CME as a strategic resource at the heart of your healthcare system's quality improvement initiatives Practical strategies for building relationships across departments and specialties to create more impactful, coordinated education Innovative approaches to measuring and demonstrating the effectiveness of your CME programs Tune in now to unlock the secrets of making your CME program an indispensable driver of excellence in your healthcare system. Timestamps 00:00 Nurse turned educator; now an RN CME specialist. 06:03 Partnering in rural Michigan for healthcare improvement. 07:51 Building relationships for proactive service line strategies. 10:32 Efforts to integrate CME as a strategic resource. 16:48 Education barriers: preconceived notions, resistance, limited human resources. 18:50 Collaborative case review meetings enhance treatment insights. 24:39 Using varied data for planning and support. 27:16 Annual symposium educates primary care providers comprehensively. 28:43 Advocating for joint accreditation in clinical education. Resources West K. Small Teams, Big Outcomes: Efficient CME Approaches. Alliance Almanac. August 21, 2024.

Are you a CME professional struggling to create engaging, accessible content that truly resonates with healthcare providers? You know the importance of staying current with medical advancements, but you're finding it challenging to deliver information in ways that stick. You want your educational materials to not only inform but also inspire change in clinical practice. If you're looking for innovative approaches to make your CME content more impactful, patient-centered, and adaptable to diverse learner needs and environments, this episode is for you. Join us to explore cutting-edge strategies in medical education that bridge the gap between information overload and meaningful learning experiences. You'll gain insights into: Ways to engage with your partners as a crucial step in effective independent medical education Techniques for incorporating patient voices and perspectives into CME activities Approaches to using social media and digital platforms for enhanced learner engagement Resources Patient-Physician Perspective Collection BMJ's What Your Patient is Thinking series Tony Collier's article on living with prostate cancer International Society for Medical Publication Professionals (ISMPP) Bredbenner K, Simon SM. Video abstracts and plain language summaries are more effective than graphical abstracts and published abstracts. PLoS One. 2019;14(11):e0224697. 7 Unexpected Strategies To Refresh Your CME Needs Assessment Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Independent Medical Education 00:16 Guest Introduction: Caroline Helford 00:30 Fresh Approaches to Medical Education 01:02 Caroline's Background in Medical Publishing 08:12 Defining Independent Medical Education 09:22 The Role of Social Media in Medical Education 10:53 Importance of Visual and Accessible Content 19:02 Engaging Patients in Medical Education 32:31 Future Trends in Medical Education 35:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

You've got the writing skills. You're passionate about medical education. But every prospective CME client asks for that elusive portfolio. Sound familiar? If you're an aspiring CME writer feeling stuck in this catch-22, you're in the right place. Today, we're breaking down how to build a compelling CME portfolio from scratch - even if you've never had a single client.  Listen in to: Discover three practical strategies to build an impressive CME writing portfolio from scratch Learn how to showcase your existing skills and experience in a way that appeals to CME clients Get insider tips on creating portfolio-worthy samples like needs assessments and blog posts Ready to turn your blank page into a showcase of your talents? Let's dive in. Resources Ready, Steady, CME! Portfolio-building playbooks WriteCME Pro Finding the Freelance Clients You Deserve 7 Unexpected Strategies To Refresh Your CME Needs Assessment How to Streamline Your Medical Writing Literature Review Process Elevate Your Medical Writing: How to Choose the Right Literature Review Approach for Your Project Timestamps 00:00 Alex discusses creating a CME medical writing portfolio for newbies. We explore three options for building a portfolio. 03:25 Diversify needs assessments, consider audience, interprofessional education. 08:12 Build your CME portfolio through networking, courses, and feedback. 09:54 Customize your portfolio to highlight professionalism and reliability. Subscribe for CME writing tips and resources. Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Have you ever faced the ethical dilemma of being asked to work on similar projects for competing clients? As a freelance CME writer, you may encounter situations where multiple clients request your expertise for overlapping projects. This can put you in a challenging position, balancing professional ethics with business opportunities. By listening to this episode, you will: Learn how to navigate potential conflicts of interest in CME writing Understand the ethical frameworks and principles that guide decision-making in medical education Gain practical strategies for maintaining professional integrity while managing client relationships Tune in now to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to make ethical decisions that protect your reputation and uphold the integrity of CME content creation. Resources WriteCMEpreneur Waitlist Write Medicine Insider Manifesting Wealth in Transitions Retreat ACCME 2020 Standards for Integrity and Independence in Continuing Education Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:39 WriteCME Pro question on the ethical dilemma where two clients ask you to work on the same project 03:23 Exploring ethical frameworks 06:54 Variables affecting content integrity 09:55 The issue of conflict of interest 11:22 Transparency is another ethical consideration 12:13 Answering the WriteCME Pro question 13:23 Key takeaways from today's episode Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you a physician feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of modern healthcare? Do you struggle to have your voice heard in an increasingly corporate medical landscape? Or perhaps you're a medical professional looking to step into a leadership role, but unsure how to begin?  As CME professionals, we work with physicians on a daily basis. But how tuned into their struggles and concerts are you? And how can education support physicians and other health professionals who are ready to grow into a leadership role? As a healthcare or CME professional, you may struggle to maintain autonomy, influence decisions, and navigate the increasingly corporate medical environment. Today's episode with Dr. Lisa Herbert MD, FAAFP, CPEC addresses these challenges head-on, offering insights and strategies to help you reclaim your voice and emerge as an effective leader in your field. Discover a proven framework for developing essential leadership skills tailored for physicians Burnout can stem from increasing administrative burdens, corporate influence, and lack of autonomy, but coaching can provide tools to reclaim focus and purpose. Learn the 5 Ps of leadership Connect with Dr. Lisa Just the Right Balance LinkedIn Resources Dr. Lisa's books Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Introducing Lisa 05:20 Physicians losing their voice 07:28 The imperative for physicians to develop negotiation, communication, and conflict resolution skills 09:33 Challenges physicians are facing 13:07 Barriers to clinician autonomy from prioritizing clinical issues 15:39 The disincentives for physicians in training 16:42 A walkthrough of what Lisa teaches and offers to help physicians establish themselves as leaders 22:26 What steps to take to work with her 23:57 Lisa's final thoughts on mindset 26:01 Key takeaways from today's conversation with Lisa Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you struggling to maintain a balanced online presence without feeling overwhelmed by social media? As a freelance medical writer, you likely know the importance of social media as a marketing tool. However, its demands can be incredibly draining, impacting both your productivity and emotional wellbeing. This episode dives into practical strategies tailored to help you navigate these challenges effectively. 1. Learn why LinkedIn is the preferred platform for professional conversations among medical writers. 2. Discover step-by-step methods to create and manage your content efficiently without the usual stress. 3. Gain tips on time management and maintaining emotional wellbeing while engaging online. **Action (A):** Tune in now to the latest episode of Monday Mentor and take control of your social media presence today! Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:31 Why I choose to solely focus on LinkedIn 02:50 How to manage your social media presence 04:23 Time management strategies for social media 05:01 Being selective about what you respond to Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you struggling to create compelling needs assessments that win over supporters in today's evolving medical education landscape? As a medical education grant writer or provider, you know that crafting targeted, data-driven needs assessments is crucial for securing funding and delivering impactful education. However, piecing together the right data and telling a persuasive story can be challenging, especially with the increasing expectations from supporters. 1. Gain expert insights from Nathalie Turner MS, ELS, a nearly 30-year veteran in medical education, on what makes a needs assessment compelling to supporters. 2. Learn the must-haves versus nice-to-haves in needs assessments and tips for balancing different stakeholder interests. 3. Discover where needs assessments are heading in the coming years and how to stay ahead of the curve. Tune in now to hear Natalie share her wealth of knowledge and experience, empowering you to create winning needs assessments that secure funding and drive meaningful change in healthcare. Connect with Nathalie Director, Grant Development, Medscape Education LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:40 Introducing Nathalie and grant development 04:03 How needs assessments have changed in the last 3 decades 06:00 Working with the old model of a literature review 10:00 Steps to gathering supporter preferences for grant proposals 11:42 Must-haves versus nice-to-haves in proposals and needs assessments 13:48 What gaps are 15:20 Types of training and development the community needs to get even better at that investigative process 17:46 Balancing interests of different grant proposal readers 19:23 Challenges in compiling compelling needs assessment and grant proposals 20:20 Future trends in needs assessments and grant proposals 21:17 Nathalie's perspective on AI's role in writing needs assessments 23:28 Her thoughts on what's important to the needs assessment process 24:41 3 Key considerations for approaching needs assessments 27:07 Key takeaways from today's episode you can put into action right away Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Overcome medical writing self-doubt through mindset shifts and peer connections. Are you struggling to gain confidence and overcome self-doubt in your medical writing career?  Today in Monday Mentor, we tackle the common challenges CME writers face in today's rapidly changing landscape. From navigating client expectations to proving your value as a strategic partner, we share practical tips to help you thrive as a medical writer. Discover how to: 1. Shift your mindset from self-doubt to expert 2. Communicate effectively with clients to clarify project scope and expectations  3. Advocate for your value in driving content strategy Tune in now to learn powerful strategies for conquering self-doubt and mastering your role as a CME writer. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:25 Addressing context 02:32 Develop and reinforce your professional identity 05:05 External factors driving self-doubt 08:01 Overcoming self-doubt 10:49 Navigating CME writing Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

What really happens behind the scenes when a severely injured trauma patient arrives at the hospital?   Emergency care providers need to act quickly and coordinate seamlessly with their team when seconds count to save a trauma patient's life. But the high-stakes, chaotic environment can make it challenging to stay calm, avoid errors, and prevent burnout, especially if you don't get to practice those skills regularly. Stephen Cohn MD says trauma surgeons need to be experts at dealing with calamity. They are glue people, helping to hold together the entire hospital enterprise. In today's episode you'll get: An inside look at real-world trauma resuscitation from a surgeon's perspective   Practical tips to optimize trauma teamwork, communication, and composure under pressure Advice for both individuals and organizations on building sustainable trauma surgery careers Listen now to hear Dr. Cohn's wisdom gleaned from 40+ years of managing the worst injuries imaginable. Resources Stephen M. Cohn MD. All Bleeding Stops: Life and Death in the Trauma Unit. Mayo Clinic Press. 2023. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:40 Walk-through of the arrival of a trauma patient at the trauma center 10:14 Feelings in the trauma center and coordinated teamwork 14:12 Continuing medical education and team training 17:32 The work that trauma & general surgeons do and a wide array of potential surgical intervention 19:16 Innovations that have redefined and impacted trauma care 21:39 Common errors and misconceptions 23:27 Advice for younger surgeons on preventing burnout and preserving energy 25:37 Institutional support and resources 27:27 Key takeaways Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Kristen Dascoli, a seasoned pro with experience on both the editorial and business development sides of CME, pulls back the curtain on the development of a pioneering program on gender-affirming HIV care. ELEVATE was a groundbreaking CME initiative that aimed to enhance healthcare providers' cultural competencies in delivering gender-affirming care to transgender and gender-diverse patients. From its pilot in January 2015 to its conclusion in the summer of 2019, ELEVATE conducted 26 trainings across 14 states, partnering with 9 chapters of the American Academy of Family Physicians, a county healthcare agency, and 13 health systems. The initiative reached nearly 1,500 healthcare professionals in primary care, infectious disease, and HIV practice settings through live events, an online webinar, interviews, and a published white paper, ultimately inspiring the creation of a Transgender Advisory Committee at one of the participating health systems. 1. Discover how a little targeted research into supporters' educational focus can help you create needs assessments that resonate with funders, while maintaining the highest standards of independence and objectivity. 2. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the development of ELEVATE and learn how you can apply similar strategies to bring your own visionary ideas to life. 3. Master the art of designing education that starts smart, scales strategically, and captures meaningful, measurable outcomes that demonstrate real-world impact. Resources McCrea AD, Dascoli KL. Inclusion in Education, Part 1: Designing a Gender-affirming Educational Initiative. Alliance Almanac. October 2017. McCrea AD, Dascoli KL. Inclusion in Education, Part 2: A New Method for Measuring Changes in Skill, Attitude, and Behavior. Alliance Almanac. April 2018. Connect with Kristen Freelance Medical Writer/Editor/Business Consultant Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:40 Kristen's Background in CME 03:54 The changes in the process of writing needs assessments 05:52 Walking through the process of the development and impact of a program like Elevate 12:13 Lessons from the pilot program of Elevate 15:42 How Elevate changed Kristen and the organization she worked in 19:56 How to establish and build relationships 23:40 Starting conversations for collaboration 27:22 Surprising outcomes and feedback 30:42 Advice for education providers who want to develop innovative programs 34:23 How to start to be brave and make connections 37:52 Challenges writers have when writing a needs assessment for a grant proposal 44:18 Recap of today's episodes key takeaways Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you a clinician, researcher or academic transitioning into CME writing? Do you sometimes feel like you're starting over from scratch, despite your wealth of expertise? Are you struggling with self-doubt, isolation, or imposter syndrome as you navigate this new path? If so, you're in the right place. In this episode, we'll dive into the common anxieties faced by new CME writers and share practical strategies to help you reframe your thinking, build confidence, and thrive in your new role.  You'll learn how to leverage your existing knowledge, find support to combat isolation, and approach uncomfortable feelings with curiosity and compassion. By the end, you'll have a toolkit of insights and practices to help you move past self-doubt and build a successful career in CME writing. So if you're ready to honor your expertise, connect with a supportive community, and grow into your new identity as a CME writer - keep listening. Let's get started! Takeaways Here are 3 key takeaways and action steps from the episode: 1. Remember your expertise Your current knowledge and professional experience are highly relevant and valuable in CME writing.  Identify aspects of your expertise that could become potential revenue streams for your freelance CME writing business. Action step: Make a list of your specific areas of expertise and brainstorm how you can leverage them in your CME writing. 2. Find support to combat isolation Connecting with a community of fellow writers is crucial for combating self-doubt and isolation. Surrounding yourself with others on a similar path provides opportunities to ask questions, learn, and see your experiences reflected. Action step: Join a supportive community, like the WriteCME Pro membership, to access the resources and support you need to build confidence and hone your skills. 3. Use practical strategies to boost confidence When facing self-doubt, use the "Pause, Breathe, Notice, Reassess, Respond" practice to approach uncomfortable feelings with curiosity. Remind yourself of past successes, reach out to supportive colleagues, or break overwhelming projects into manageable steps. The next time you experience self-doubt, implement the 5-step practice and intentionally respond to your feelings in a way that promotes growth and confidence. By leveraging your expertise, finding support, and using practical strategies to navigate self-doubt, you can transform anxiety into opportunities for growth and thrive in your CME writing journey. Resources ➡️ Grab your WriteCME Roadmap! Get access to this complimentary ebook, designed to help you break into CME, find clients, and hone your craft. ➡️ Ready for skills, scaffolding, and support? Join WriteCME Pro ➡️ Claire Bonneau/Email Marketing Website LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:46 Ways to reframe your thinking 05:25 Overcoming isolation as a freelancer 07:37 A practice for facing self-doubt Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you struggling with feelings of self-doubt in your continuing education career? If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or doubtful about your abilities in continuing education's fast-paced, ever-changing world, you're not alone. In this episode of Write Medicine, Milini Mingo reviews the history of the imposter phenomenon, shares a three-step approach to navigating self-doubt, and challenges the CE community to create professional development resources for ourselves that are oriented around improvement in our competence and performance. 1. Recognize how self-doubt or imposter phenomenon shows up as the first step towards managing it effectively. 2. Learn practical strategies for managing self-doubt, including reframing negative narratives and implementing tools to support your growth. 3. Find encouragement and a sense of community, knowing that others in the CE field have faced and overcome similar struggles. Connect with Milini LinkedIn Resources Mingo M. Back to Basics: The 7 Pillars of CE. Alliance Almanac. March 27, 2024. Mingo M. Imposter Syndrome: Is It Holding You Back? Alliance Almanac. November 13, 2023. Claire Bonneau/Email Marketing Website LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:31 Introducing Milini 06:28 The big picture of continuing education 07:43 The 7 pillars of CE 12:18 Why she wrote the piece for the Alliance Almanac on imposter syndrome 14:49 How the article resonated with people in the field 15:24 Exploring imposter syndrome: What it is and how it shows up 17:12 The consequences of imposter syndrome 18:41 Milini's thoughts on imposter syndrome vs imposter phenomenon 21:43 How imposter syndrome shows up and affects people's work 23:45 How to collectively start to affirm people's presence in this field and provide support that dissipates imposter syndrome 25:20 Key takeaways on moving forward in the CME field Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

How can you break into the rewarding and lucrative field of continuing medical education (CME) writing? If you're a health professional, academic, science researcher, or vet looking to transition into a career that offers more autonomy, flexibility, and meaningful work, this episode is for you. Discover how to leverage your existing skills and passion for writing, healthcare, and lifelong learning to create engaging educational content that supports health professionals and improves patient care. By listening to this episode, you'll learn: 1. The five essential milestones to pave your way to success as a CME writer 2. Core competencies needed to excel in CME writing 3. Practical strategies for building your portfolio and networking to lay the foundation for landing your first CME writing projects Takeaways 1. Understanding the CME landscape is crucial: Familiarize yourself with the history, purpose, and function of CME, including policies, ethics, and key stakeholders in this highly regulated field. 2. Develop core competencies: To succeed as a CME writer, in addition to strong writing skills, you need to be conversant with medical terminology, have solid research abilities, and be able to apply adult learning principles to content. 3. Build relationships and showcase your expertise: Networking is paramount in the close-knit CME community. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with education providers, attend industry events, and showcase your expertise. Resources Claire Bonneau, Email Newsletter Writer Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:57 Milestone 1: Understanding CME 04:20 Milestone 2: Adult Learning Principles 05:27 Milestone 3: Formats and Deliverables in CME 06:41 Milestone 4: Core Competencies 09:57 Milestone 5: Connecting with Prospects and Networking Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Have you ever wondered how gender inequities affect career progression in the world of continuing medical education/professional development (CME/CPD)? In this episode, we explore women's pervasive challenges in CME and CPD, from microaggressions to barriers in leadership roles. Whether you're looking to climb the career ladder or simply gain insights into the dynamics of gender equality within your field, this conversation sheds light on critical issues affecting many in the industry. 1. Discover strategies to navigate and overcome gender-based barriers to career advancement in CME and CPD. 2. Learn how to build and leverage a supportive network that can help propel your career forward. 3. Gain insights into the real experiences and solutions from industry veterans Poonam Kapadia and Annette Schwind, who have successfully navigated these waters. Tune in to arm yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for equity and forge a path to leadership in medical education. Connect with Poonam and Annette Poonam Kapadia, Vice President, Education Strategy: poonam.kapadia@kaplan.edu Annette Schwind, Associate Director, Medical Grants & Sponsorships, LinkedIn, annette.schwind@takeda.com Resources Field E, Krivkovich A, Kügele S, Robinson N, Yee L. Women in the Workplace Report, McKinsey, 2023. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:35 Introducing Poonam and Annette 05:37 How they started getting interested in gender inequities in CME/CPD 10:45 More about the poll they took at the Alliance panel in New Orleans 2024 and what surprised them 14:00 Women's experiences of microaggressions  16:09 Starting the conversation on intersectionality 20:09 Addressing pay inequities 25:53 Building trust in a distributed field 32:31 Skills and strategies for women navigating CME careers 36:32 Practical takeaways from today's episode Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you tired of feeling like your freelance medical writing business is running you, instead of the other way around? Many freelance medical writers find themselves stuck in a reactive cycle, pouring all their time and energy into client projects but neglecting the strategic work that will actually move their business forward. They dream of a thriving, fulfilling business where they're in the driver's seat, but struggle to find the time or headspace to make it a reality amidst the constant deadlines and demands. You are the most important resource in your business. In this episode you'll learn: Practical strategies for distinguishing between working ON vs. IN your business, so you can invest in the big-picture tasks that drive growth Actionable tips for cultivating discernment around what you say yes and no to, so you can focus your time and energy on the right clients and projects A roadmap for scaling your business intentionally by defining your core services and optimizing your processes for efficiency and impact If you're ready to take control of your freelance medical writing journey and build a business that truly energizes and fulfills you, hit play now and let's dive into why YOU are your most important resource. Resources Claire Bonneau, Email Newsletter Writer Write Medicine Insider Niche Discovery Checklist Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:18 Working in vs working on your business 02:55 3 steps to take today to work on your business 04:24 Discernment is key to your freelance medical writing business when thinking about investing in yourself 06:46 3 steps to take today to be discerning with your yes and your no 09:12 Leveraging social media for your freelance medical writing success 10:43 3 steps to take today to focus your time and effort on social media 13:25 Scaling your business intentionally 13:58 3 steps to take right now to start scaling your business with intention 16:34 Prioritizing your well-being 17:54 3 steps to take right now to start taking care of yourself Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you curious about the role of Medical Affairs in Independent Medical Education (IME)? Perhaps you're struggling to demonstrate the value and impact of your programs in a way that resonates with IME teams. IME is evolving. Today's episode with IME expert Nancy Paynter discusses the pivotal role of IME within the broader scope of medical affairs and provides valuable insights to help you effectively communicate your initiative's impact to IME personnel. By tuning in, you'll discover: The concept of the "scientific journey" for clinicians  How IME is focused on digitizing data on clinical and patient decision-making What the evolution of IME within Medical Affairs means for CME/CPD. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving role of IME and medical affairs and their strategic priorities. Takeaways 1. Independent Medical Education is becoming more closely integrated with medical affairs, aligning with broader organizational goals and cross-functional partnerships. 2. Medical affairs teams use the four-stage "scientific journey" framework to plan their engagement strategies and meet clinicians where they are in their understanding and adoption of new evidence. The stages include Awareness, Agreement, Adoption, and Advocacy. 3. CME can support the scientific journey while maintaining independence by conducting root cause analyses of practice and care gaps, employing data-driven strategies, and adapting educational materials based on real-time feedback and learner outcomes. By doing so, CME is well-positioned to serve as a strategic partner to IME in driving meaningful educational outcomes. Resources Medical Affairs Professional Society (MAPS) Industry reports from McKinsey and Deloitte discuss the evolving role of Medical Affairs Moore's Outcomes Framework Connect with Nancy Paynter, Strategic Adviser, Life Science Industry nancympaynter@gmail.com Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:56 What medical affairs is and how it's evolving 05:58 Understanding Independent Medical Education (IME) 10:48 Transformation in IME work within medical affairs 19:20 Pharma company thinking about the scientific journey and how accredited CME can support it 23:12 Use of Moore's framework in medical education 28:10 How CME can partner with medical affairs 30:48 Accredited CME professionals communicating touch points with IME counterparts 33:09 Nancy's final thoughts 37:39 Key takeaways from episode 118 Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you struggling to keep your clinical audience engaged and invested in your CME content? In today's fast-paced, information-overloaded world, medical writers face the daunting challenge of capturing and maintaining their readers' attention. This episode explores how you can leverage proven storytelling techniques to create compelling, memorable CME content that resonates with your target audience. Discover how to structure your content using powerful storytelling frameworks that build anticipation and drive home your key messages. Learn how to hook your reader with compelling openers, incorporate patient and clinician voices, and make the "so what" crystal clear. Gain insights into adapting storytelling structures to your CME content. Tune in and unlock the secrets to becoming a master CME storyteller, ready to captivate and inspire your clinical audience like never before! Resources StoryBrand Think Faster Talk Smarter by Matt Abrahams Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:55 Crafting compelling CME content: Exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution 05:36 Storybrand 08:30 Other storytelling frameworks 12:09 My challenge for you Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you curious about how artificial intelligence and chatbots are revolutionizing continuing medical education (CME) and transforming the way clinicians learn? As a CME professional, you constantly seek innovative ways to create engaging and effective educational experiences for your clinician audience. Staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements, such as AI and chatbots, is crucial to address the specific knowledge gaps and practice needs of busy healthcare providers. This episode will provide valuable insights on using these cutting-edge tools to enhance your CME programs. 1. Discover how AI-powered chatbots can provide clinicians with personalized, real-time answers to their clinical questions, while seamlessly integrating with validated educational content. 2. Learn how to use data from chatbot interactions to identify knowledge gaps, trending topics, and urgent educational needs, enabling you to create more targeted and impactful CME programs. 3. Gain a deeper understanding of the future of AI in CME, including the potential of machine learning to predict learner gaps and deliver need-specific education, as well as the challenges and opportunities of using generative AI to create customized content. Tune in to hear Alana Brody MBA, CHCP, Executive Director, Vice President of Strategic Educational Design, and David Setiadi, Chief Technology Officer at Projects in Knowledge Powered by Kaplan, share their expertise on how AI and chatbots can help you create cutting-edge, engaging, and effective CME experiences for your clinician audience! Takeaways 1. It's possible to use AI-powered chatbots in your CME programs to provide clinicians with a quick and reliable way to get their clinical questions answered at the point of care. Over time, you can build and maintain a cycle of trust with clinicians, ensuring they can rely on the technology for efficient and effective patient care. 2. You can use data from chatbot interactions to gain valuable insights into your learners' knowledge gaps, educational needs, and trending topics. 3. Pay attention to copyright compliance and privacy. To safeguard the rights of original publishers, you'll need to verify that the information provided through chatbots is copyright compliant and establish protocols to ensure that all learner data is deidentified to ensure privacy. Connect with Alana alana.brody@kaplan.edu Website Timestamps 0:00 Introduction 01:54 Exploring what chatbots are and how they have entered the CME space 02:47 How chatbots compare with other point-of-care tools 04:30 Lifting the hood into the processes they use to send the learner in the right direction 06:01 The continuous process of updating all the content 06:39 How they're using the data gathered 09:40 User engagement and interaction with chatbots 12:23 The ecosystem: how they pull learners in, analyzing qualitative data and privacy 16:36 How learners find the chatbot 20:06 How they handle volumes of qualitative data 23:08 The future of the chatbot: Traditional AI vs Generative AI 29:11 Final thoughts: Leveraging AI for personalized learning in CME 32:20 Key takeaways from episode 116 Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when searching for relevant studies on PubMed for your medical writing projects? As a medical writer, you know that conducting a comprehensive literature review is crucial for delivering high-quality work to your clients and audiences. However, the process can be time-consuming and challenging, especially if you don't have a clear strategy. This episode of Monday Mentor will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to streamline your literature review process and find the most relevant, high-quality studies to inform your work. Listen in to gain: Best practices for efficiently searching databases like PubMed Steps to find the most relevant and high-quality sources. Tools and resources to stay organized and produce a rigorous literature review Tune in now to discover how you can elevate your literature review skills and deliver stronger, more valuable work to your clients and audiences! Takeaways 1. Defining your research question or objectives is crucial for guiding your search strategy and ensuring a focused, efficient literature review process. Before diving into your literature search, take the time to clearly articulate your research question or objectives using frameworks like PICO, SPIDER, or PEO. 2. Using a combination of keyword searches, subject heading/index term searches (like MeSH terms), and database filters can help you capture a wide range of potentially relevant sources while narrowing down your results. Familiarize yourself with the search functionalities and controlled vocabularies of databases like PubMed, and experiment with different combinations of keywords, subject headings, and filters to optimize your search results. 3. Leveraging citation management tools, note-taking techniques, and reporting guidelines can help you stay organized, maintain transparency, and produce a rigorous literature review. Explore and implement tools like EndNote, Zotero, or Mendeley for citation management, and develop a structured note-taking system (e.g., literature matrices or apps like Notion or Roam Research) to synthesize and report your findings effectively. Resources NYU Libraries Literature Search Template Literature Review Typologies  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:47 Defining the research question 03:43 Establishing search terms 06:17 Exploring various databases 10:30 Grey literature sources 13:32 Additional search techniques 15:07 Tools and resources that can help you 20:28 The power of literature reviews Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Virginia Chachati is a pharmacist turned medical writer who embarked on her freelance journey after moving to Germany in 2020. Inspired by the need to work remotely and make a living online, Virginia started a travel health blog that caught a client's attention on Upwork. Despite being underpaid for her valuable work, this experience motivated her to create a community of medical writers focused on fair compensation and support. Virginia established a presence on LinkedIn, where a medical communications agency found and recruited her. Now a full-time freelancer, Virginia enjoys the flexibility of working from home while being able to travel back to the UK for work and family visits. Join us as Virginia shares her insights on building a thriving medical writing career. 1. Learn how to identify and attract high-quality clients who value your skills and expertise 2. Discover the power of community in setting fair rates and supporting your professional growth Connect with Virginia LinkedIn Resources Free 61 tips Ebook for medical writers Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:10 Virginia's journey into medical writing 04:02 Her experience with Upwork 06:31 Being picky about clients 08:29 Importance of writers knowing their worth and setting ground rules 12:56 The power of community in medical writing and solving the problem of Upwork 17:52 Setting fair value in medical writing 21:56 The future of medical writing: AI and social media 26:15 Takeaways from today's conversation with Virginia Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you measuring CME outcomes effectively or just tacking them on at the end? If you're involved in developing, measuring and reporting on CME outcomes, you know it's become an expected part of the process. But many CME providers still struggle with integrating outcomes throughout program design and implementation. This leads to poor practices like tacking on outcomes at the end, writing vague questions, and creating reports that fail to tell a compelling story. To truly demonstrate the value and impact of your education, outcomes measurement needs to be woven in from the very beginning. In episode 113 of Write Medicine Wendy Cerenzia and Emily Belcher of CE Outcomes share their hard-won insights on outcomes measurements. Tune in to: 1. Learn why and how to integrate outcomes planning into the earliest stages of educational design  2. Discover tips for writing effective outcomes questions that align with learning objectives and avoid common pitfalls 3. Understand what makes a compelling outcomes report that ties the story together for stakeholders Ready to uplevel your outcomes game? Takeaways 1. Outcomes measurement must be integrated from the beginning of educational planning and design, not tacked on at the end. Take action today by reviewing your process for integrating outcomes measurement into educational design. This will help you identify opportunities to involve outcomes experts earlier.  2. Effective outcomes questions align with learning objectives, avoid vagueness and confusing options, and consider the target audience, education format, and intended data use. Work with your faculty to carefully craft outcomes questions that align with objectives and will yield meaningful data. And consider pilot testing questions. 3. A compelling outcomes report ties the story together by connecting program goals, educational design, key findings, and important learnings. When you are writing your next outcomes report, challenge yourself to weave a coherent narrative that demonstrates the "why" behind the education and interprets the data to extract relevant insights. Focus on clearly communicating the impact and value. Connect with Wendy and Emily CE Outcomes wendy.cerenzia@ceoutcomes.com Emily Belcher, Director of Research and Analytics: emily.belcher@ceoutcomes.com Timestamps 0:00 Introduction 1:05 Measuring Continuing Medical Education Outcomes 2:46 Current State of Outcomes in CME and CPD 5:58 Poor Practices in Measuring Outcomes 10:13 Root Cause of Not Starting with the End in Mind 10:26 Outcomes Standardization Project 18:07 Importance of Internal Consistency in Definitions 19:19 Effectiveness of Outcomes Measurement Frameworks 22:21 Expectations from Supporters in Outcomes Reporting 26:45 Cautious Approach to Using AI in Outcomes Analysis 31:36 Elements of a Good Outcome Story 34:45 Future Directions in Outcomes Analysis and Reporting 38:24 Three Takeaways and Action Steps from Episode 113 Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you struggling to find the most relevant papers for your medical writing projects on PubMed? You know the importance of having a solid research foundation when working on medical writing projects like clinical practice guidelines, grant proposals, or CME materials. But searching databases like PubMed can feel like falling down a rabbit hole, leaving you frustrated and unsure if you've found the most pertinent literature. This episode of Monday Mentor will help you understand what literature reviews are and how to choose the right type of review for your project, setting you up for more efficient and effective database searches. Listen to this episode to discover: 1. The essential purposes and elements of a well-crafted literature review  2. How literature reviews inform a wide range of medical writing projects 3. The different types of literature reviews and when to use each one Tune in now to learn how to master the art of the literature review and take your medical writing to the next level! Takeaways Here are three key takeaways from this episode of Monday Mentor: 1. Literature reviews are essential for providing context, identifying gaps, and synthesizing evidence to support various medical writing projects, from clinical practice guidelines to grant proposals and CME materials. 2. Different types of literature reviews serve different purposes and follow distinct methodologies, such as narrative reviews for broad, critical analysis; systematic reviews for answering focused questions; scoping reviews for mapping research activity; and realist reviews for understanding complex interventions. 3. Selecting the appropriate type of literature review based on your research objectives is crucial for conducting an efficient and effective review that informs evidence-based decision-making in your medical writing projects. Resources Literature Review Typologies Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to searching relevant literature 01:03 What literature reviews are and the different types 02:04 Why do a literature review at all 03:18 What type of medical writing projects do literature reviews serve 06:48 Common types of literature reviews Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

If you are an education provider, are you curious about how to use social media platforms like X/formerly Twitter to deliver engaging and accredited CME content? If you're a writer, do you want to know more about how to create social-media-based short-form content? As a medical educator or content creator, you may be looking for innovative ways to reach healthcare professionals where they already spend time - on social media. Episode 111 jumps into the world of "tweetorials" and explores how you can adapt your educational content for platforms like X/Twitter while maintaining the quality and accreditation standards of traditional CME. Julie Merten PharmD is my guest, a clinical pharmacist at the forefront of medical writing and CME content development at Chimeric Medical Communications. In today's episode, she shares her strategy for distilling complex medical topics into bite-sized educational content. We'll explore how to take a full clinical data paper, sharpen the key messages, and deliver them in a way that not only educates but engages and fosters interaction. What is the role of imagery, ethical considerations, and the importance of tapping into the right medical niches? Join us to learn more about crafting compelling short-form CME and take your content to the next level on social media! Takeaways 1. When creating short-form content for social-media-based CME, keep the scope narrow and focused. If a topic is too complex, consider breaking it up into multiple threads or supplementing with other formats like expert videos. 2. Invest time in creating high-quality, engaging visuals that are optimized for mobile viewing. Infographic-style images and square aspect ratios work well for tweetorials. 3. Emojis, design elements, and questioning techniques are practical tools to hook an audience and convey information quickly. If you adopt these stylistic elements, be aware of cultural interpretations and maintain factual accuracy and appropriateness for mobile consumption. Connect with Julie Email: merten.julianna@chimericmed.com Chimeric Medical Communications, LLC LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:29 Introducing Julie 04:02 What a Tweetorial is and how it works 05:27 How long threads have been around 06:53 Crafting a Tweetorial tutorial 08:11 Assessing learner engagement on Tweetorials - how people respond and sign up for them 10:56 Creating private communities on X 11:57 Looking at the interaction of learners in a Tweetorial 13:01 Some of the challenges when creating this short-form content 14:33 Teaching and learning considerations with short-form content 15:45 All about emojis 18:01 Moving from long-form to short-form content 19:55 Figuring out what the key messages are 21:10 The scope for patient cases and tutorials 21:40 Ethical concerns 23:16 Considerations on how Tweetorials are assessed 24:01 Evaluating outcome metrics for Tweetorials 25:42 Finding CME on X as a learner 27:08 Key skills to develop for creating effective accredited education content for social media 31:40 Final thoughts on trying short-form content 32:37 Where to connect with Julie 33:21 Tips for creating short-form content for social media-based CME Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you crafting compelling stories of transformation in your CME needs assessments? As a CME writer, your ability to identify clinical practice gaps and translate them into actionable learning objectives is crucial for creating needs assessments that lead to impactful education. Episode 110 equips you a framework for developing practice and performance gaps and learning objectives for robust needs assessments that justify the need for education. Tune in to: Understand what clinical practice and performance gaps are and how to substantiate them through thorough research Learn a framework for conducting a comprehensive gap analysis to pinpoint the root causes of practice shortfalls Discover the key components of well-crafted learning objectives and how to align them with desired outcomes Let's jump in. Takeaways 1. Use the question-based framework I shared in the episode to conduct a thorough gap analysis, considering the what, why, who, when, where, and how of the identified practice gap. You'll also find a template for gap analysis in the show notes. 2. Ensure your learning objectives are actionable, measurable, relevant, and aligned with the desired outcome level (e.g., knowledge, competence, performance, patient outcomes). 3. Push yourself to create learning objectives that go beyond knowledge gains and foster practical skill application to drive meaningful practice change. Resources Gap Analysis Framework ACS Tips for Writing Learning Objectives Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction 00:38 Identifying clinical practice and performance gaps 07:34 Crafting effective learning objectives 08:03 4 rules of thumb when creating learning objectives 09:37 TLDR on learning objectives Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you unknowingly excluding audiences with your medical writing and CME content?  As a CME professional, ensuring that your content reaches and resonates with diverse audiences is crucial. In a field that shapes the clinical practice and well-being of so many, accuracy and accessibility are non-negotiable.  Virginia Chachati, a pharmacist turned medical writer, joins me to explore strategies and best practices for crafting inclusive, accessible content that empowers readers and improves health outcomes.  In EP 109, you'll: 1. Learn how to optimize your content for people with varying levels of health literacy and digital skills 2. Discover tools and resources to help you create content that meets accessibility standards 3. Understand the impact of inclusive writing on audience engagement and health equity Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your inclusive content creation skills. Takeaways 3 Steps you can take toward accessibility and inclusivity.  1. Familiarize yourself with health literacy principles and accessibility guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and the Patient Information Forum's PIF TICK standard. 2. Audit your existing content for accessibility and inclusivity, identifying areas for improvement and implementing best practices. 3. Continuously educate yourself on inclusive writing strategies by following thought leaders, attending workshops, and engaging with resources shared in the episode's show notes. Resources Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Patient Information Forum TICK standard How to Write Clearly by Tom Albrighton  Writing Tools: 55 essential strategies for every writer by Roy Clark  Health literacy as a social determinant of health National Institutes of Health: What is health literacy? CME/CE Content Creator's Toolkit The Utility of Social Media in CME The Checklist Revolution: Streamlining Healthcare Content for Better Understanding Cultivating a Visual Mindset: Infographics in Continuing Healthcare Education Connect with Virginia Email: virginiachachati@gmail.com LinkedIn Website Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:22 Virginia's approach to making medical writing accessible and inclusive 08:59 Resources to support accessibility work 13:06 Takeaways from today's conversation on accessibility and inclusive content creation Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Don't forget to subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.

Are you ready to master the art of medical writing and stand out as a CME content creator? As a medical writer, you know that crafting compelling continuing medical education (CME) content requires a unique set of competencies. But what exactly are these essential skills, and how can you develop them to stand out in this competitive field? In this episode, we'll explore the core abilities that will help you excel as a CME writer and deliver exceptional educational content that meets the needs of both your clients and healthcare professionals. In this episode, you'll unlock: 1. A breakdown of the essential writing skills needed to articulate complex medical information simply and effectively. 2. A peak into the most valuable sources for compelling and robust needs assessments. 3. How fostering your communication and collaboration abilities prepares you to work seamlessly with clients and subject matter experts to achieve excellence in medical education content. Discover how to enhance your CME writing expertise—tune in for valuable insights to transform your approach and elevate your industry standing. Resources ACCME. Standards for Integrity and Independence in Continuing Education. 2020 Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction 00:34 CME writing demands strong foundational writing skills 01:22 You need technical proficiency with reference management software 02:15 Importance of research skills 04:11 Communication and collaboration skills 05:32 Understanding assessment and outcomes frameworks 06:47 Summary of today's mini-episode Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast! Subscribe to the Write Medicine podcast for more valuable insights on continuing medical education content for health professionals. Click the Follow button and subscribe on your favorite platform.