A Guide to Engaging with Media to Amplify Health Research

Communicating health research through local and national print, television, and radio news can amplify the impact of research findings. However, relatively few health researchers work with the media to communicate their findings to a broader audience. In April 2024, we convened a group of specialists with expertise in traditional media, health news, and health advocacy for a webinar sponsored by the Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Initiative. We present an overview of the discussion, including opportunities within the context of traditional media, guidance for health researchers on partnering with the media, and themes on translating health research to a general audience. Health researchers can use this article as a guide to working with the media to expand the influence of their research findings.