Prism Ideas maintains links with EMWA through participation in the training programme for its writers, who benefit from the range of courses on offer. By attending the conferences, Prism invests in the training and development of its staff and ensures that the company is kept up to date with current trends and approaches in all aspects of medical communication, along with providing support to this important organisation.
The European Medical Writers Association (EMWA), founded in 1989, is a professional association with over 900 members from 39 countries, involved in representing, supporting and training medical communicators in Europe. As part of this goal, EMWA provides networking opportunities, job and volunteering opportunities and a quarterly publication (Medial Writing, formerly The Write Stuff), available via the member’s section of the website (www.emwa.org). There is also a Freelance Forum associated with the website and the conferences, providing a source of experienced professionals.
EMWA holds meetings twice a year, with a focus on training via workshops offered by the EMWA Professional Development Programme (EDPD) and delivered by experienced EMWA members. Successful completion of the workshops and ‘homework’ lead to a specialised or multidisciplinary certificate, at foundation or advanced level. Workshops cover a variety of topics, ranging from Drug Development and Regulatory Information to Language & Writing and Medical Communication. The EDPD training provides opportunities for both the individual and their company to benefit from up-to-date information delivered by professionals with a wealth of experience in their field.
The conferences also provide networking and support opportunities for the medical writing community, through talks, social events and informal chats with peers. On an individual basis this is of great benefit, as it introduces a range of different roles and specialities within the field. In addition, many members benefit from discussing common issues or problem sharing with their peers (maintaining confidentially where applicable!) in a more relaxed setting, leading to collaborations and support both formally and informally. This can also benefit the member’s company, improving their general knowledge of the environment and awareness of developments, and potentially providing new contacts and partners for future projects.