AMA Citation (11th Edition) Help

This guide was created as a basic guide for using AMA Manual of Style, 11th edition. Some of the health science fields such as physician assistants and physical therapy use the AMA Manual of Style.

Personal Communications

Personal communications should not be placed in the list of references.

Always ask the senders permission before quoting him or her.

The following are examples of how personal communications may be used in the text:

  • In a conversation with H. Williamson, MD (September 2013)...
  • According to a letter from H. Williamson, MD, in September 2013...
  • Similar findings have been noted by H. Williamson, MD (written communication, September 2013).
  • According to the manufacturer (H. Smith, oral communication, August 2005) the drug became available in August 2004.

The author should give the date of communication and state whether it was in oral or written (including email) form. Highest academic degrees should also be given.

 For more information regarding personal communications, you can consult the chapter on personal communications in the AMA Manual of Style. 

Special Note for Physician Assistant Students

For the assignments in the Medical Writing Class, you will not be allowed to cite personal communications. 

Subjects: Citing
Tags: AMA, citations, citing