Key dates and frequently asked questions

Key dates

Frequently asked questions

Can I enter the same project for more than one award? No. Each piece of work can be entered for one award per year. If we feel your entry would fit better in another category, we may contact you to discuss moving it.

Do I need to be a BOA member? For the Excellence in Planned Orthopaedic Care, Excellence in Trauma Care and Trainee-Led Project awards, at least one member of the applicant team must be a current BOA member. Find out more about BOA membership at www.boa.ac.uk/Membership.

Can teams from outside the NHS apply? Yes. For the two care awards and the Trainee-Led Project Award, teams can be based in any sector, as long as the work relates directly to NHS patient care in the UK.

Can I include patient stories? Yes, but they must be anonymised and have appropriate consent. Do not include any information that could identify a patient.

Do I need to include supporting documents? No, supporting material is optional. If you include it, keep it to items that directly back up your application.

Can I add more information after the closing date? We may contact you to verify details or ask for clarification, but we cannot accept substantial new evidence after the deadline.

What happens if I'm shortlisted for the Innovation Award? You'll be invited to give an eight-minute presentation at a dedicated session at BOA Congress 2027, followed by questions from the judging panel. The winner is decided after this session.

Will I receive feedback? Innovation Award entrants receive feedback from the expert panel. For other awards, feedback may be offered where the programme can provide it consistently to all applicants.

Who can I contact with a question? Email the awards team at [email protected].