Overview
STAT’s First Opinion section is more than just a collection of thought-provoking articles about biomedical research, healthcare policy, and the life sciences. It is a dynamic platform where insiders—biotech executives, clinicians, researchers, and patients—share their perspectives on the most pressing issues in medicine. But the conversation doesn’t end with the essay. Through carefully selected Letters to the Editor, STAT fosters a robust, good-faith exchange of ideas that can influence public discourse and even policy.
This guide is designed for anyone who wants to move from passive reading to active participation. Whether you’re a healthcare professional with a nuanced take, a researcher who spots a missing data point, or a patient with a personal story that adds depth, you’ll learn how to craft a compelling letter, avoid common pitfalls, and increase your chances of seeing your response published. By the end, you’ll be equipped to join the community of readers who help shape the narrative around medicine and science.
Prerequisites
Before you dive in, make sure you have the following:
- A STAT account (optional) – While you can read First Opinion essays without an account, submitting a letter requires you to log in or create a free profile. This helps verify your identity and keeps the discussion credible.
- Access to a recent First Opinion essay – Letters must respond directly to a specific essay. Browse the First Opinion archive and pick one that resonates with you.
- Willingness to abide by community guidelines – STAT values respectful, evidence-based dialogue. Personal attacks, misinformation, or off-topic rants will not be published.
- Basic writing tools – A word processor (like Google Docs) or even a simple text editor will help you draft, revise, and check your word count.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Choose Your Anchor Essay
First, identify an essay that sparks a strong reaction—whether agreement, disagreement, or a desire to add context. For example, you might read an opinion piece on MAHA activists, perimenopause treatment gaps, or diversity initiatives in medical schools. Read it carefully. Take notes on specific claims you want to address.
Tip: Use STAT’s search function to find essays by topic. You can also subscribe to the First Opinion newsletter to get notified of new pieces.
2. Craft Your Letter
Your letter should be concise (STAT typically publishes letters under 300 words), focused, and directly tied to the essay. Follow this structure:
- Opening salutation – “To the Editor,” followed by a line identifying the essay: “Re: ‘Title of Essay’ by Author Name (Date).”
- Your main point – Lead with your strongest argument. State whether you agree, disagree, or want to expand on a point.
- Evidence or experience – If you’re a clinician, mention your specialty. If you’re a researcher, cite a study. Personal anecdotes can be powerful but should support a broader point.
- Closing – End with a call for action or a reflective question. Include your full name, title (if relevant), and location.
Sample Letter Template:
To the Editor, Re: “The Overlooked Crisis of Perimenopause” by Dr. Jane Smith (March 5, 2025) I read Dr. Smith’s essay with great interest as a nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health. While she correctly highlights the lack of research funding, I believe the problem also lies in medical education. Many clinicians never learn to differentiate perimenopause symptoms from anxiety disorders. Until we revamp our curricula, patients will continue to suffer. We need mandatory menopause training for OB-GYN residents. Name: Sarah Johnson, NP Title: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Location: Portland, OR
3. Submit Your Letter
Navigate to the bottom of the First Opinion essay you selected. You will find the “Submit a Letter to the Editor” form. Click it and paste your letter. Complete any required fields (your name, email, and affiliation). Double-check your spelling and grammar—STAT’s editors may lightly edit for clarity, but a polished submission makes a better impression.
Note: Submission does not guarantee publication. Editors select letters that offer novel perspectives, represent diverse viewpoints, and uphold the quality of the discussion.
4. Monitor for Publication and Engage
If your letter is selected, it will appear on STAT’s website under the “Letters to the Editor” section, often grouped with other responses to the same essay. You can share the link on social media or discuss it further in comments. Remember, the goal is to foster a robust, good-faith discussion—so respond to any replies with the same respect you’d expect.
Common Mistakes
Even experienced writers can fall into these traps. Avoid them to increase your chances of being published.
- Being too long – STAT prefers letters under 300 words. Longer submissions are often cut or rejected outright. Edit ruthlessly.
- Going off-topic – Your letter must directly respond to the specific essay. Using the letter as a platform to promote your unrelated research or agenda will not work.
- Ignoring the evidence – Claims without support, especially on controversial topics like diversity in medical admissions, weaken your argument. Cite data or your own expertise.
- Using an aggressive tone – Critique the ideas, not the author. Ad hominem attacks are the fastest way to get rejected.
- Forgetting to include your credentials – STAT values transparency. If you have relevant expertise (e.g., “Associate Professor of Genetics” or “Patient with Parkinson’s”), mention it in your closing.
- Submitting the same letter to multiple essays – Each letter should be tailored to a single essay. Sending a generic response to several pieces shows lack of engagement.
Summary
Participating in STAT’s First Opinion discussion is a rewarding way to influence the conversation around health, medicine, and science. By selecting a compelling essay, writing a concise and evidence-backed letter, submitting it through the official form, and avoiding common mistakes, you can become a valued voice in the community. Remember, the goal is not just to be published, but to contribute to a good-faith exchange that advances understanding. Ready to make your voice heard? Start reading a First Opinion essay today and write your letter.