Public Health Writer
Save
Writing and communicating are core elements in healthcare. They help to build understanding, educate, and prevent disease. Public health writers use their communication skills to create materials that promotes healthy behaviors and informs the public about health issues.
Job Description
Public health writers work for state and local health agencies, nonprofit organizations, and hospitals. They write materials for a variety of audiences, including the general public, healthcare providers, and policymakers.
Education and Training
A bachelor’s degree in public health, communications, or a related field is typically required for entry-level positions. Education in fields such as English, technical writing, or journalism are helpful. Many public health writers also hold a master’s degree in public health or a related field.
Entry-level public health writers typically have one to three years of experience in writing and editing. They may also have experience in public health or a related field.
Skills and Knowledge
Public health writers need to have strong writing and editing skills. They also need to be able to understand and interpret public health data and research. Other important skills for public health writers include:
- Ability to write for a variety of audiences
- Knowledge of public health issues
- Understanding of health promotion and disease prevention
- Strong research skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Teamwork and interpersonal skills
Public health writers often use software such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Creative Suite, and web content management systems.
Career Growth
Public health writers can advance to positions such as senior writer, editor, or director of communications. They may also move into management positions in public health or related fields.
Transferable Skills
The skills that public health writers develop can be transferred to a variety of other careers, including:
- Technical writing
- Copywriting
- Health education
- Public relations
- Marketing
