How do I win? (aka F.A.Q.)

Q: OK, so how DO I get shortlisted!
A: Firstly, may we suggest you read the pdf document below. This explains the process and understanding this may help maximise your chances.  Remember this is a competition - even if you follow the guidance fully, your report still needs to be better than almost every other submission in your category to make it to the final. You are competing against the rest of the UK.

Document: How to Get Shortlisted for the Finalmed Prize (66 kb)

Q: Can I use a case that has been a part of a poster presentation presented in an international conference (not orally, just mounted) where the abstract was not submitted?
A: The spirit of the rules is that the case report is entirely your own work. This is why we insist that the work has not been presented elsewhere. You should submit your alternative case and not the one that has already been presented - albeit in poster form.

Q: I would like a bit more information about the basis upon which cases will be judged. I understand there is a word limit of 1000 words and I understand that the case presentation should flow and should include only pertinent points but what else will the judges be looking for?
A: The aim of the competition is to allow you to explore whichever aspect of a case you wish to share with a general audience of professional colleagues. It is up to you to therefore demonstrate the criteria listed on the website here. We do not wish to be proscriptive and therefore we leave it to you to convince the shortlisting panel and the judges why your case hits all the points listed.

Q: I am a CST2 in general surgery. Is this event open to applications from doctors at my grade or is it only for foundation trainees?
A: The Prize is open to any doctor who is within 2 years of graduation from medical school. A CT or ST grade by virtue of their seniority in UK training schemes would exclude you. You do not necessarily have to be on a training programme to submit an entry, simply within 2 years of receiving your primary medical degree.

Q: I want to ask a question regarding authorship. My colleague and I were both equally involved in the care of the patient described in our case report. We were wondering whether it would be possible to include both our names in the presentation?
A: The Finalmed Prize is open to individuals only.  You will have to decide between you who is the lead author and therefore the individual who will submit the case and would present it should it be shortlisted.  It should be that author's work and not a collaborative effort.  It is a competition in presenting as much as authoring. The write-up gets you shortlisted, however, the presenting and handling of the questions is what will win it.