Episode #128: No Residency Needed – Opportunities for Physicians in CME Writing
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You may be aware of the field of medical writing, but have you heard of medical writers who specialize in CME writing? This area of medical writing involves planning, designing, and executing the kinds of CME activities you may be familiar with for maintaining your license. Today’s returning guest, Dr. Morgan Leafe, is a pediatrician and medical writer who works in the CME space, and she’s here to discuss what that entails, why she loves her work, and who is a good fit for this role.
In this episode we’re talking about:
- Dr. Leafe’s transition from clinical medicine to medical writing
- Why wanting a career you love is not a selfish goal
- The flexibility of medical writing as a career
- What’s involved in CME writing and content development
- Steps to take (and not to take) to pursue a CME medical writing role
- CME medical writing opportunities for those without residency training
- Where to look for CME roles and typical compensation
Links for this episode:
Dr. Morgan Leafe’s LinkedIn Profile
Episode 52 – Coping With The Emotions of Leaving Medicine – Podcast with Dr. Morgan Leafe
Five Tips for Handling The Emotional Side Of Leaving Medicine – Blog written by Dr. Morgan Leafe
Medical Writing Resource Guide – This 11-page guide gives you an introduction to medical writing as well as links for courses, books, websites, and tips for exploring this diverse area. Includes steps you can take whether you want to do medical writing as a side gig, or work full-time as a freelancer or on staff in a company.
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"Heather taught me that 'the truth will set you free'."
I sought Heather’s guidance after practicing outpatient internal medicine for many years, as it was getting difficult to balance my role as a clinician while meeting my needs and those of my family. After our first consultation, I felt like I was seen and heard for the first time in my career. Working with Heather helped me identify my strengths, weaknesses, fears, and goals, and ultimately guided me to a non-clinical role that better aligned with my needs and aspirations. I am deeply indebted to Heather for the impact she has had on my personal and professional development. She is one of the most influential people in my life and I continue to seek her guidance years after our initial encounter. She once said that “we are happiest and most successful when we are using our skills and abilities at their highest level.” Heather will help you discover your truth. Thank you for your incredible work and friendship!
Megan Leivant, MD
"Heather’s approach was great! She would listen to me and helped me appreciate who I am."
I remember when she said ‘do your resume before our next meeting’, I was about to push back but she gently nudged me along and I’m glad I did exactly what she wanted me to do. We also did interview prep via Zoom and I was offered a great job in UM. She has continued to follow up even after I was offered this job, helping me with pointers about negotiating. I will totally recommend the Doctors Crossing and Heather to anyone feeling stuck like me and looking for a great coach! Thank you Heather!
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“The coaching I have had with you has been life changing."
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What started out as an initial thirty-minute consultation call turned into an amazing four-year journey that transformed my life, personally, spiritually and professionally.
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If you are reading this as a “Type A” surgeon who doesn’t think coaching is for you, I would encourage you to give Heather a shot. I’m very glad I did!
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From the very first interaction with Heather, it became abundantly clear that she possessed a systematic approach and a methodology firmly rooted in my focusing on my goals and aspirations. Heather's coaching sessions helped me dismantle limiting beliefs and unearth the capable woman, mother, and physician within me. Under Heather's guidance, I began to dream again. I rediscovered my passion for writing, found the courage to share my stories, and even launched my own coaching practice. Today, I specialize in helping others conquer imposter syndrome and overcome burnout, empowering them to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. Working with Heather fundamentally shifted my perspective and allowed me to show up authentically in every facet of my life, resulting in a profound sense of fulfillment.
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Reshma Shah MD, MPH
"Heather taught me that 'the truth will set you free'."
I sought Heather’s guidance after practicing outpatient internal medicine for many years, as it was getting difficult to balance my role as a clinician while meeting my needs and those of my family. After our first consultation, I felt like I was seen and heard for the first time in my career. Working with Heather helped me identify my strengths, weaknesses, fears, and goals, and ultimately guided me to a non-clinical role that better aligned with my needs and aspirations. I am deeply indebted to Heather for the impact she has had on my personal and professional development. She is one of the most influential people in my life and I continue to seek her guidance years after our initial encounter. She once said that “we are happiest and most successful when we are using our skills and abilities at their highest level.” Heather will help you discover your truth. Thank you for your incredible work and friendship!
Megan Leivant, MD
"Heather’s approach was great! She would listen to me and helped me appreciate who I am."
I remember when she said ‘do your resume before our next meeting’, I was about to push back but she gently nudged me along and I’m glad I did exactly what she wanted me to do. We also did interview prep via Zoom and I was offered a great job in UM. She has continued to follow up even after I was offered this job, helping me with pointers about negotiating. I will totally recommend the Doctors Crossing and Heather to anyone feeling stuck like me and looking for a great coach! Thank you Heather!
- Modupe Oladeinde, MD
How do I get a CME writing job?
Hello Paul, there is a free guide to medical writing on my website that you can download which has a number of resources for physicians interested in getting into medical writing. You can find that guide by going to this link and scrolling down. https://doctorscrossing.com/freeresources/
There is a course offered by the University of Wisconsin that is a very affordable toe-dip into writing. https://www.ed2go.com/cgsce/online-courses/explore-career-in-medical-writing/
I also like Dr. Mandy Armitage’s book on medical writing: https://www.amazon.com/Clinical-Practice-Medical-Writing-Transition/dp/B08QWH3BW9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1683252202&sr=8-1
These resources are not specifically for CME writing but for medical writing in general. Lastly, here is another podcast about CME writing:
https://nonclinicalphysicians.com/cme-writer/
I’m interested in pursuing medical writing.
I haven’t practiced in 10 years.
My number is 504-606-9064
Same as above
Great podcast, Morgan and Heather! As you know, Morgan, and you might remember, Heather (we communicated/spoke at least once), I am also a pediatrician (for more than 30 years) turned freelance medical writer, and do a lot of needs assessments (and other types of medical writing). Although I did love pediatrics (and I still sometimes miss my patients-I started around the same time as Morgan), I have always liked to write and really love medical writing and the change in lifestyle is great!
Hi Deborah! Very nice to hear from you again! Thank you for your kind comments about the podcast. I was thrilled to have Morgan Leafe back on the podcast, this time talking about CME writing. I’m so happy that your transition into medical writing has worked out so well for you! Congratulations and lots of continued success and happiness to you!
Heather