Many GPs have reservations about the media, but if medicine does not represent itself to the wider world, it risks being misrepresented. In an extract from a new book, John Illman explains how to prepare for a media interview.
Doctors are often called upon to answer questions by journalists from national or local newspapers and broadcast media. Preparation for a media interview is essential. Begin the process with the end in mind. A successful interview will convey a message(s) that will do one or more of the following:
- Inform
- Teach
- Motivate
- Persuade
- Inspire
- Promote
- Entertain
The best messages are short and snappy – statements of fact or advice. They incorporate:
SOURCE: https://www.gponline.com/doctors-prepare-media-interviews/article/1396278
- John Illman is a former editor of GP who also worked as health editor on The Guardian. Extracted from Handling the media: communication and presentation skills for healthcare professionals. JIC Books, £14.99. Available from www.jicmedia.org
Categories: Media Guide For Doctors