Episode #251: Regulatory Writing: An Overlooked Career Path for Detail-Oriented Physicians

Curious about a flexible, high-paying nonclinical career that still uses your medical expertise? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Keagen Hadley, an occupational therapist who built a successful career in regulatory medical writing without ever stepping into clinical practice. Dr. Hadley shares how he discovered this little-known field while working in clinical research, the persistence it took to break in, and why regulatory writing can be such an appealing option for physicians seeking flexibility, meaningful work, and strong earning potential. We also explore what regulatory writers actually do, who tends to thrive in this role, how AI is impacting the profession, and practical strategies for getting started. If you enjoy structure, attention to detail, and helping bring new therapies to patients, this conversation may open your eyes to an exciting career path you hadn't considered.

In this episode we're talking about: What regulatory medical writing is and its role in drug, biologic, and device development The personality traits and skills that help people succeed in regulatory writing Dr. Keagen Hadley's unconventional path from occupational therapy to a thriving writing career How physicians can break into the field through networking, recruiters, and strategic positioning Compensation, flexibility, and career growth opportunities in regulatory writing How AI is influencing regulatory writing and why human expertise remains essential Resources, training recommendations, and practical advice for exploring this career path You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode251

Links for this episode: The Clinician's Guide to Regulatory Writing | Keagen Hadley | Substack

Keagen Hadley | LinkedIn

Targeted Regulatory Writing Techniques: Clinical Documents for Drugs and Biologics by Wood and Foote

6 Month Road Map to Becoming a Regulatory Writer by Keagen Hadley

Regulatory Medical Writing Masterclass

Medical Writing Resource Guide – This 11-page guide gives you an introduction to medical writing as well as links for courses, books, websites, and tips for exploring this diverse area. Includes steps you can take whether you want to do medical writing as a side gig, or work full-time as a freelancer or an employee.

Land Your Dream Job With LinkedIn: 5 Steps To Get Started – Following these 5 tips will help you optimize your profile, connect and network with others, and have success a