Calling budding writers in primary care

Did you discover your inner scribe during lockdown? Are you looking for motivation to put your thoughts down on paper? Here is your opportunity.

The Health Media, publishers of New Zealand Doctor|Rata Aotearoa and Pharmacy Today|Kaitiaki Rongoā o te Wā, is launching a short story competition, aptly named The Shorties.

We’re looking for writers of fiction and non-fiction to share their take on the competition theme: “This year is not what I planned”.

Our sponsor, primary care cheerleaders OmniHealth is offering two prizes of $1000 for writers of fiction and non-fiction who can wow the judges.

OmniHealth manging director Mark Wills says the company knows that primary care is full of folk who are more than care providers, and welcomes the opportunity of helping them showcase their “other” skills.

“It’s fun – COVID-19 has been a bit of a nightmare, and the competition provides a fun distraction, especially in a somewhat restricted world,” Mr Wills says.

The Health Media managing editor Barbara Fountain is thrilled to have a sponsor for the competition.

“As a writer myself, I know a little motivation helps turn the cogs.”

Ms Fountain is also looking forward to uncovering some new writing talent in the primary care sector.

“For an editor, there is nothing quite like finding a new voice. I’m looking forward to publishing the winning entries.”

Ms Fountain will be one of the competition judges along with author and GP Greg Judkins and Pharmacy Today editor Ruth Brown.

Ms Brown urges writers to let their imaginations roam free, and to never forget the power of humour when trying to capture an audience. “Also, try to enjoy yourself – writing can be enormously satisfying.”

Judges will be looking for originality of ideas and insights, the ability to hold interest and engage the reader, and quality of writing skills.

The competition is open to subscribers of The Health Media’s primary care publications New Zealand Doctor|Rata Aotearoa and Pharmacy Today|Kaitiaki Rongoā o te Wā.

The competition closes on 17 October. For details on how to enter and terms and conditions go www.nzdoctor.co.nz/theshorties

ABOUT OMNIHEALTH

OmniHealth is a general practice ownership company with a stake in 20 medical centres in 16 towns and cities, with over 73,000 enrolled patients. The company aims to become New Zealand’s leading healthcare provider and to ensure there are strong, effective and sustainable general practice systems for the future.

For more information go to www.omnihealth.co.nz

ABOUT THE HEALTH MEDIA

The Health Media is the proud publisher of New Zealand Doctor|Rata Aotearoa, Pharmacy Today|Kaitiaki Rongoā O Te Wā, the Healthcare Handbook, Everybody Patient Information Sheets and The Roster Te Rārangi. The company also provides accredited ELearning services for primary healthcare professionals, and host the annual New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards|He Tohu Mauri Ora.

For more information go to www.thehealthmedia.co.nz

Click here to subscribe