Health Career: Health Writer and Editor
Who are health writers and editors and what do they do?
Health writers and editors research, write and communicate health information. They contribute articles and other forms of writing to health-related publications such as hospital newsletters and medical journals. Depending upon their job, they may write about a specific health topic such as cancer or health insurance issues or they may write about many different topics. They will often write for a specific audience (such as medical doctors) and therefore know how to use the same medical terminology and language used by doctors.
How do health writers and editors typically spend their workday?
As a health writer or editor you will likely work for a publishing company, radio or television station, professional medical journal, university, health foundation or government agency. You'll generally either work for a health organization writing articles to explain the organization's mission and programs, or you will write medical news articles for medical journals and other health-related publications. Since most of your work involves interviewing, researching and writing, you will primarily work in an office environment. You may also have to travel to hospitals and libraries to perform interviews and research.
What does it take to be a good health writer or editor?
Do you enjoy writing and are you interested in health care? Then you should consider being a health writer or editor. It is important that you have a clear, easy-to-follow writing style that allows you to explain confusing medical issues in an understandable way for your readers. You should also be sociable and inquisitive and be able to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of a health writer or editor?
Health educator, health sciences librarian.
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