BY MARY BETH MIOTTO, MD, MPH, FAAP
Dr. Mary Beth Miotto
Physicians are natural storytellers, entrusted with the narratives of their patients and communities. Whether caring for patients, leading health care teams, educating future physicians, conducting research, innovating health care, or influencing
policy, physicians identify challenges and feel a strong responsibility to advocate for meaningful change. The MMS has long welcomed advocates to its House of Delegates, Committees, Sections, and Districts. Here, physicians can turn a single
idea into a policy proposal that impacts the Society and our Commonwealth.
While MMS policies shape opinions within the medical community and beyond, individual physicians’ stories and arguments deserve a wider audience. Though members often wish to bring their message to the public and policymakers more urgently, they
may lack confidence in composing a message for media publication. To address this, the MMS offers an online course entitled “Crafting Compelling Voices: Writing and Publishing Impactful Op-Eds and Letters to the Editor.”
This four-module online activity provides a step-by-step guide to mastering persuasive writing, empowering physicians with the skills to create and publish impactful op-eds (opinion editorials) and letters to the editor.
Member physicians should not speak or write publicly on behalf of the MMS without explicit permission from MMS officers and staff. However, they are encouraged to publish insights under their own names. By refining their writing skills and sharing
their expertise, members can increase their chances of publication and potentially bring about change.
Impactful Op-Eds image
The course guides participants through researching media outlets, structuring content for specific audiences, and pitching articles. Interviews with MMS past president Dr. David Rosman and members, Drs. Kate Atkinson, Lash Nolan, and Deeb Salem, who
have successfully published opinion pieces and letters, offer valuable insights into their relatable experiences, motivations, and strategies. On-demand self-paced modules cover content development strategies, how to organize thoughts for impact,
maneuvering in today’s media environment, and tactical media placement. Each module’s guidance and resources enhance your media competence and confidence.
There has never been a better time for physicians and trainees to speak out on health-related issues. By articulating problems, clearly explaining their importance, and proposing solutions, participants develop skills to amplify their voices effectively
as physician citizens. After dedicating years to mastering the art and science of medicine, MMS members now have a valuable resource to amplify their voices, reach a broader audience, and offer impactful solutions to their communities.
