Industry Insights MedComms: 06/04/25
In this week’s medical communications post, we discuss three of the latest insights in the world of MedComms.
How medical writers use digital tools
A recent online survey organised by Monica Nicosia, PhD, CMPP explored the use of software, apps and generative artificial intelligence (AI) apps in medical writing or editing. The results from the 2024 Freelance Medical Communicator Tools of the Trade (FMCTT) were published in the Spring Issue of the American Medical Writers’ Association (AMWA) Journal. The survey included 32 questions and involved 291 participants from the US. It aimed to showcase how freelance writers have integrated digital tools into their work. Most responders reported using citation or reference management software and apps for medical writing or editing (74%). Around 51% did not use software or apps for accounting and bookkeeping (51%), time tracking (57%), or project management (68%). More than half of the participants (58%) reported not using generative AI apps for medical writing or editing their work.
The CONSORT updated guidelines for reporting randomised trials
The CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement has been recently updated to improve the quality of reporting randomised trials. CONSORT comprises initiatives developed by the CONSORT Group to address problems arising from inadequate reporting of randomized controlled trials. It was first published in 1996, then updated in 2001 and 2010. The CONSORT 2025 statement contains a 30-item checklist of information that authors should include when reporting the results of a randomised trial. Additionally, it provides a diagram intended to document participant flow through the trial. Seven items in the updated version are new, while several have been either revised or removed.
Link to full publication in JAMA
The path from pharmacist or dentist to medical writer
Are you a pharmacist or dentist looking for information on how you can kickstart your career in medical writing? Networkpharma.tv has recently published two recorded interviews discussing possible career paths to #MedComms. The interviews were conducted by Virginia Chachati, founder of Write Clinic. Dr. Satabdi Saha, dentist, and Nikita Patel, pharmacist, share their journeys as medical writers and give valuable tips for anyone looking to develop or change their career.
Links to the recorded interviews:
From dentist to medical writer – Dr Satabdi Saha shares her top tips!
Nikita’s 13 year story: From UK pharmacist to US medical writer
To learn more about recent news in medical communications, check out our other Industry Insights on LinkedIn or visit elion.nz/insights/.
