MEDIA GUIDE
Letters to the Editor and Op-Eds
If you’re looking for a fast, straightforward way to share information about pulmonary hypertension, writing a letter to the editor or an Op-Ed is a great option. Many small-town local newspapers are hungry for letters, so let your voice be heard!
Remember to do your homework. Research the newspapers you’d like to write to and find out who you should send your written material to. Also be sure to determine what format they prefer submissions — letters, emails or faxes? And make sure that you conform to the preferences of the newspaper to increase your chances of getting published. If there’s a 600 word limit, stick to it.
Letter to the Editor
A short written piece (approximately 100-250 words) focusing on a specific issue you have experience with.
Op-Ed
Op-Eds are longer and more substantial than letters to the editor (sometimes up to 750 words). They are often formatted as an argument for or against an idea.
Topics to write about:
- The importance of PH awareness
- Symptoms of PH
- Your personal experience with PH or in the PH community
- Your upcoming event — invite readers
- Respond to a PH-related story in the news
- Draw attention to any other important PH issue, including legislative issues from 435 Campaign Action Alerts
Contact Elisabeth to order press kits and for help preparing your media outreach. Contact PHAware@PHAssociation.org or 301-565-3004 x753.