Joining Professional Associations as Health and Science Communicators

In a previous post, Kelly talked about the advantages of joining professional associations for medical communicators and provided a helpful list of networks and organizations to explore.

During our recent webinar for the Southwest Chapter of the American Medical Writers Association, we discussed joining professional associations as a way to upskill in the field. We also highlighted various associations and networks for professionals who develop science and health content for non-expert (lay) audiences, such as the public, patients, or anyone with an inquisitive mind.

If you couldn’t make it to the webinar or if you attended but are still unsure which association is right for you when it comes to creating content for lay readers, take a look at the options below.

All listed associations offer conferences, a variety of courses and other learning opportunities, networking events, and resources for practicing professionals, beginners, and students. Membership requirements and costs to join vary, so be sure to research which networks may best fit your needs and budget.

The National Association of Science Writers (NASW) – This association includes professionals such as writers, editors, journalists, and producers who develop material about science, health, engineering, and technology for the public. Samples of published work are required to join. They offer excellent resources for novices and students!

Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) – This network supports journalists and other communications professionals who write, edit, report, and broadcast health care information for the public. They offer various types of membership.

Health Academy Section for Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) – This specific branch of PRSA supports public relations and communication specialists who work in the health care industry.

Association of Science Communicators (ASC) – Previously known as Science Talk, this group welcomes science communications and outreach professionals but also scientists and researchers who work for multiple academic institutions and organizations.  

European Medical Writers Association (EMWA) – Like the American Medical Writers Association, this association network covers all areas of medical communication, including science writing and journalism. Their online journal is freely available!

Society for Professional Journalists (SPJ) – This organization promotes knowledge and best practices in all areas of journalism, not only science and health care. It’s an especially helpful resource for ethics!

American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) – This organization may benefit writers and journalists who work as freelancers in multiple fields and genres.

Professional associations that support different cultures and groups and advance diversity in science journalism, include:

Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA)

National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)

Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA)

The Association of LBGTQ+ Journalists (NLGJA)

Want to learn more health writing?

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Join us for “Navigating Change: How to Upskill as a Medical Communicator,” on Friday, August 16 at noon CT (1 pm ET). There is no fee for this webinar.

Register here.

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