Working in the media 1: Options for doctors

A doctor's name should appear in the press only at birth, death, and marriage--apparently, that was what some medical students were being taught as recently as the 1970s.1 I know that many doctors still reckon that's a pretty good rule of thumb. But more and more seem to be breaking out of the sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship and braving the grubby world of the media. Or they would like to, judging by the interest at the BMJ Careers fairs and the regular stream of emails from medics requesting media experience at the BBC.

This first article lays out some of your options and gives you a taste of what you can expect from media work. The next two articles deal with the nitty gritty: tips on how to get your foot in the door and some guidance on the nuts and bolts of broadcasting and writing.