Global standard for medical writing outlined

Three international medical writing associations have created a new global standard as part of a best practice drive.

It was published by the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA), European Medical Writers Association (EMWA), and the International Society for Medical Publication Professionals (ISMPP).

In a joint statement, they outlined the role of medical writing for scientific journals and presentations and presented a series of guidelines they hope will serve as a “valuable reference for ethical publication practices, worldwide”.

The unified position aims to highlight the value professional medical writing brings to evidence-based medicine in facilitating ethical, accurate and timely disclosure of research results.

EMWA member Dr Chris Winchester said: “By emphasising that professional medical writers are appropriately qualified and follow rigorous guidelines, the joint position statement seeks to strengthen the standing of the profession among journal editors, peer reviewers and readers.”

The statement builds on recommendations from the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors and Good Publication Practice guidelines, describing best practice and providing a template for disclosing medical writing support - particularly with regards to authorship of clinical trial reports.

Between them the AMWA, EMWA and ISMPP have over 6,500 members worldwide, and the joint statement is set to take precedence over each associations' previous positions and guidelines.