What does a Medical Journalist cover?

Medical journalists play an important role in informing the general public, which can assist with decision making and promoting autonomy. They cover a vast and diverse range of subject matters in the field of medicine.

Newspapers are important sources of information about medical advances. They help not only to guide and inform the general public, but they may also play a part in influencing professionals already working in the field of health and medicine.

Medical Journalism

Medical journalism is a perfect opportunity for those who are medically qualified to step away from the actual field of medicine, or for those with a journalism background who have a special interest in medicine and healthcare issues.

Medical journalists produce highly specialised content which may relate to health policy, drug trials, new medical advancements or cutting-edge research.

Many medical journalists are qualified doctors or graduates of medicine. Although it is not necessary to be medically qualified, it is useful to have some training or experience in the field of general journalism. Many news outlets and publishers favour applicants who have obtained a degree.

As a medical journalist, you will ensure that the general public can access content and process it in a way that is manageable for the average layperson. You will present highly specialised and complex content in a manner that is easy to understand and digest. Although medical journals rely heavily on good medical journalism, the target audience for a medical journalist is the general public.

Studying Journalism

Journalism can be completed as an undergraduate degree in the UK. Specialist providers work in collaboration with prestige news organisations to ensure that you can write, edit, and produce high-quality content from the minute your training begins. For examples of specialist journalism courses, visit the School of Journalism.

Armed with the right experience, qualifications, and academic record, budding journalists will find securing employment in their chosen specialism an easy route. Ensure that you kick-start your career by gathering impressive qualifications that arm you with all the essential skills required.