The short answer to your question is “yes”. Yes, I think given your background and experience, you can most certainly build a successful freelance career. And I think the best place to start is to work in areas you like and areas you know. Namely, the medical industry.
Companies in every field need competent communicators, and it’s far easier to break through if you have prior industry experience and technical knowledge, as you have.
That’s how I started when I first went out on my own. Way back in 1991, I had already worked for a number of years as a journalist and then as a PR and marketing consultant for an agency which specialized in the information technology field. So, it was natural for me to target IT companies when I went solo. I still do work for some technology-based clients today, but have branched out into a variety of other areas and interests – everything from heavy duty trucks and to business services and consumer products. But we all have to start somewhere, and the best place to begin is in areas of strength.
So, Pam, I wouldn’t worry that you don’t have years of experience as a freelance writer. As you say, you have experience producing various marketing communications as well as many years in the medical profession. That, in my opinion, is enough for you to attract worthy clients and, from there, develop your business.
Keep in mind, that you not only have industry experience, you also have industry contacts – now’s the time to use them:
* Gain testimonials from people you've worked with (ie those for whom you have already produced marketing work)
* Seek referrals from people you know
* Identify prospects from people in the news
I hope this helps, and good luck with your journey.