Write Medicine

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: [email protected] 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: [email protected] 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.

What challenges and opportunities await US-based CME providers looking to expand into Europe? As a CME provider, understanding Europe's accreditation landscape and cultural nuances is crucial for successfully delivering education to international audiences. In today’s episode of Write Medicine, Susan Yarbrough joins me in dissecting the complexities of CME in Europe and guiding us through the accreditation mosaic. We’ll explore key considerations and strategies for navigating European CME, including the need for a strong dose of cultural humility.  In episode 107, you’ll: 1. Gain insights into the differences between US and European CME accreditation systems 2. Learn practical advice for partnering with local organizations to deliver relevant education 3. Discover the importance of cultural humility and adaptability when expanding CME offerings internationally Tune in now to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to expand your CME programs confidently into Europe and beyond! Takeaways While European CME accreditation differs significantly from the US, focusing on approving activities rather than providers, the accreditation landscape in Europe is evolving, with a slow but steady movement towards alignment and reciprocity.  Reciprocal agreements allow for the exchange of CME credits, but disparities in accepting and using CPD credits across jurisdictions remain a concern. As a US-based CME provider, if you want to expand your offerings to Europe and beyond, as a first step, research the accreditation requirements and cultural nuances of your target European countries or regions. Education providers who want to successfully deliver CME in Europe must cultivate cultural humility as a key ingredient. As a US-based provider, you’ll need to understand local guidelines, perform a gap analysis and needs assessment, and have a local footprint to effectively deliver education that is appropriately accredited and tailored to the European audience. Connect with Susan Email: [email protected] Instagram Abbreviations EACCME: European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education ( ECMEC®: The American Medical Association (AMA) has an agreement to mutually recognize continuing medical education (CME) credit with the European Union of Medical Specialties (UEMS). Physicians (MDs, DOs, or equivalent international degree holders) may apply to the AMA to have their EACCME European CME Credits (ECMEC®s) converted to AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Resources Ghidinellli M, Pozniak E, Kolanko C, Wilson S. The ongoing challenges faced by providers of CME-CPD in Europe. J CME. 2023;12(1) Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:44 Introducing Susan 03:50 Some of the key challenges she sees in accreditation domestically 05:26 Updated guidelines for virtual credit in EACME 3.0 10:03 Differences and similarities between European and US accreditation 12:30 Impact of territoriality on CME content 15:51 Uniformity or standardization for reciprocal agreements in CME accreditation 17:13 Independence in Europe versus the US 21:48 Why the ABPI is attached to having control over content 24:26 How US education providers go about addressing specific needs and gaps in Europe 28:35 What tactical changes may look like to be an effective educator 31:03 Winners and losers in European accreditation 33:34 The extent of international and global CME and how is that going to change 36:03 Susan’s practical advice for CME providers 37:50 Key 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 trapped in the generalist rut as a medical writer? Discover the power of nourishing your niche in CME writing. Specializing in CME writing can help you crack the client mindset code, build authority, generate higher revenue, and optimize your marketing efforts. This Monday Mentor episode explores how focusing on CME can lead to a thriving medical writing career and help you: 1. Understand the rewards and risks of specializing in CME writing 2. Learn how to identify and develop your CME niche based on your skills and interests 3. Discover strategies to market your CME writing services effectively and command higher rates Ready to take your medical writing career to the next level? Grab this niche discovery checklist to start exploring your CME writing niche today! Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to niche specialization 01:33 Breaking down the benefits of nourishing a niche 04:45 Overcoming concerns and challenges of specializing 06:57 When and how to find a niche 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 medical writer struggling to stay competitive and confident in the rapidly evolving industry landscape? Experienced medical writer and educator Michelle Guillemard shares her insights today on how aspiring and established medical writers can navigate the challenges of an increasingly crowded field, economic fluctuations, and the rise of AI writing tools. Whether you're looking to break into medical writing, specialize in a niche, or future-proof your skills, Michelle's advice will help you chart a path to success and fulfillment in your writing career. Listen to this episode to discover: Strategies for differentiating yourself and targeting your ideal clients in a competitive market Tips for staying up-to-date with industry trends, health communication best practices, and emerging technologies Insights on building confidence, resilience, and a well-rounded lifestyle as a freelance medical writer Tune in now to learn how you can thrive as a medical writer in 2023 and beyond and gain the knowledge and inspiration you need to take your career to the next level. Takeaways 1. Identify your niche: Reflect on your unique skills, interests, and background to determine your specialization in medical writing. Develop a targeted marketing message and online presence that communicates your expertise to potential clients. 2. Curate your learning: Set aside dedicated time to stay informed about the latest trends, best practices, and technologies in medical writing. Focus on resources that align with your niche and goals, such as industry blogs, newsletters, webinars, and journals. 3. Embrace AI as a tool: Familiarize yourself with AI writing tools and explore ways to incorporate them into your writing process. Experiment with using AI to generate outlines, edit sentences, or streamline your brainstorming while maintaining your commitment to quality, evidence-based content. Connect with Michelle Health Writer Hub LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Intro 02:47 Introducing Michelle 05:11 Her medical writing journey 09:45 Exploring the changes: Insights on who’s moving into the field, their motivations, and what that means for training and professional development 15:47 Specialization as a benefit in developing business 19:15 Crucial strategies for writers to help them stay resilient during times of economic fluctuation 23:29 Resources to help keep pace with industry trends 27:24 Designing effective medical writing courses 33:25 Is AI a threat or an opportunity in medical writing? 40:02 Key takeaways from Michelle’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 measuring educational outcomes but failing to capture the true impact on your learners? As a CME/CPD professional, you know that proving the effectiveness of your educational programs is crucial. But in the rush to gather data and report metrics, it's easy to overlook the individual learner's experience and perspective. Relying solely on quantitative measurements can cause you to miss valuable insights that could help enhance your activities and programs. In this episode, physician and longtime medical educator Dr. Dean Jenkins shares: 1. Why it's essential to focus on the learner's needs and desired outcomes when designing education 2. The importance of qualitative data in capturing the complexity of healthcare and the learner's voice  3. How defining your target outcomes upfront can improve your learning design and measurement approach Tune in to discover how putting the learner at the center of your outcomes strategy can help you deliver more impactful and meaningful education! Takeaways CME must evolve to meet learners' complex and personalized needs, incorporating a more dynamic, qualitative approach to assess learning outcomes. The CME field has been steadily shifting toward valuing outcomes beyond attendance and satisfaction for over a decade. However, analyzing the collected data and using it to improve the learning experience further remains challenging. Standardization of outcomes measurement is vital for the professionalization of CME/CPD. Sharing insights and validated findings within the CME/CPD community is beneficial and necessary to foster improvement in education and patient care. Engaging with the broader community of educators, learners, and health professionals through discussion forums, journals, or social media networks is valuable. Share your findings, experiences, and strategies for measuring and improving educational outcomes, as Dean Jenkins does through his work with Outcomes Engine. Connect with Dean [email protected] Outcomes Engine Time Stamps (02:41) - Introducing Dean (07:28) - How to package education for learners in ways to address learners' needs and learning styles (09:22) - Some of the strategies that he uses to determine what those needs are (13:59) - What Dean is talking about when talking about Pharma-led education (18:24) - Evolution of measuring and evaluation: assessing learning effectiveness across these different contexts (20:50) - His involvement in the Outcomes Standardization Project (21:56) - How Dean sees the field moving forward in terms of outcomes measurement, evaluation, and analysis (25:12) - His thoughts on whether we are headed toward internal capacity building within the field. (27:58) - The degree of collaboration between medical affairs teams and colleagues in independent medical education in Europe and the UK (29:40) - What is Outcomes Engine, and why it’s important (31:50) - Capturing the learner's voice (33:26) - How Outcomes Engine will capture the learner’s voice (35:10) - Dean’s final thoughts (36:37) - 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.