Four key takeaways from AMWA 2025

We’ve just returned from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) annual conference in Phoenix, AZ, and the energy is still palpable. This was a truly special event, bringing together a passionate community of medical writers, editors and communication professionals. 

If there's one thing we could say to summarize the experience: medical writers are deeply committed to their craft and that dedication is infectious.  

Community, connection and clarity 

While not an official theme, the event’s focus centred on the power of connection and the shared pursuit of excellence in medical communications. The sessions and conversations were all about equipping professionals with the insights and tools they need to navigate the complexities of their roles and advance medical writing excellence with precision and confidence, while ensuring compliance. 

Here are our top 5 takeaways from the event.

1. A passionate community thrives on connection

The most striking aspect of AMWA 2025 was its intimate and community-driven atmosphere. We spoke to so many attendees who were impressed by the welcoming spirit, which created a hub for sharing ideas and finding common ground.

From casual group coffees to relaxed chats over lunch, networking felt less like a formal task and more like a natural part of the day. This environment fostered genuine conversations that went far beyond the surface level. People openly shared their professional journeys, their operational challenges and their passion for the difference they make. The dedication was clear, with some attendees traveling over 24 hours from India just to be there.

2. AI is a tool, not a replacement

AI has been a major topic at industry events this year and AMWA was no exception. However, the discussions here were refreshingly pragmatic. The consensus was that while AI can help streamline manual processes, it cannot replace the critical thinking and expertise of a human medical writer.

Many attendees highlighted the risk of organizations getting caught up in the buzzword and focusing on automation for its own sake. The conversations sparked discussions about the practical applications of the technology while emphasizing a crucial point: the human element in reviewing and validating work remains irreplaceable, especially given the potential for errors or "hallucinations."

3. Deep conversations reveal shared challenges around workflow inefficiencies

The quality of the conversations was exceptional. People were incredibly open about their day-to-day challenges and the pressures of the job. A recurring theme emerged around document review workflows: inefficient processes and outdated systems can delay critical milestones .

Missed timelines, compliance risks and delayed submissions often trace back to inefficient workflows and outdated processes. The goal is always to free up writers and editors to focus on what they do best: ensuring scientific information is communicated with clarity and precision. This requires tools that support collaboration and reduce administrative burdens, rather than hinder, their workflow .

4. Strong solutions build lasting relationships

It was fantastic to hear how fondly many attendees spoke about Ideagen Please Review. For some, it felt like reconnecting with an old friend from a previous role. They shared stories about how the software helped ease the pressures of an already demanding job.

The appreciation they shared wasn't just about features; it was about the real-world impact on their work. Hearing firsthand how IPLR helps teams manage collaborative reviews and finalize complex documents with confidence was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. It’s about supporting the vital work of professionals who demand excellence.
So, where are we going next? We’re looking forward to connecting with more of you at future events!

In the meantime, discover how Ideagen Please Review can help your team streamline: