How To Become a Medical Writer - Physicians Looking for a Career Change Find an Alternative in Medical Writing

Recent surveys show that many physicians are frustrated with their careers. They complain that the doctor-patient relationship has turned into a provider-customer relationship and that patients are more demanding than before. In general, the practice of medicine is more cumbersome because of:

Long hours
ncreasing paperwork
Decreasing compensation
Malpractice accusations and lawsuits
Stringent government regulations

In fact, there are several organizations and networks advising frustrated physicians on how to restore their love for medicine or change careers. One of these organizations, the Physicians Career Network, reported that only 20 percent of its customers retool their practices; 80 percent leave medicine.

I believe a physician looking for a career change (and who has a way with words) should consider becoming a medical writer. Here's why:

You can use your skills and knowledge of medicine in a new and exciting way
You would still be involved in medicine while having more time for your family
You will find plenty of opportunities available in the market
You have the potential to earn as much or more money than when you were a physician
You won't have to work night shifts
You could become a published author

See what some medical writers have said when I asked them why they loved their careers:

"I love the variety of it. Working with different researchers in different kinds of papers."
SP

"Medical writing is the best job I've ever had, as it draws on so many different parts of me."
BH

"I love being a good medical writer. I have learned so much about so many different topics in science and medicine--really fascinating!"
SB

Several medical writers I've talked to, planned (or had) a career in medicine but then realized that was not their true desire. However, they loved to write and went into medical writing. If you want to explore medical writing as a career option visit BecomingaMedicalWriter.com for tips, expert advice and more.