Innovation and Technology in IPC

What is this award for? 

Innovation can take many forms. Judges are looking for initiatives that have transformed practice, solved problems creatively and produced tangible benefits for patients, staff and organisations. 

What are the judges looking for? 

Innovation and originality 

Successful applications will demonstrate: 

• The introduction of a new technology, digital solution, process or novel way of working. 
• Creativity, problem-solving and originality. 
• Transformation of existing practice to improve efficiency or effectiveness. 

Innovation may include: 

• Behavioural interventions. 
• Implementation models. 
• Pathway redesign. 
• Practice transformation initiatives. 

Applications should also demonstrate collaboration, stakeholder engagement and multidisciplinary working. 

Demonstrable impact 

Applicants should provide evidence of measurable improvements or contributions in one or more of the following areas: 

• Reduced infection rates. 
• Improved compliance. 
• Earlier outbreak detection. 
• Improved patient safety and quality of care. 
• Reduced transmission. 
• Improved efficiency. 
• Time savings. 
• Cost reduction. 
• Improved surveillance or reporting accuracy. 
• Improved experiences for patients or staff. 

Successful implementation 

Judges want to understand how the innovation moved from concept to reality. 

Applications should describe: 

• How the innovation was introduced. 
• Staff engagement activities. 
• Training and support provided. 
• How barriers and challenges were overcome. 
• How the innovation became embedded into routine practice. 

Scalability and sustainability 

Strong applications will demonstrate: 

• How the innovation can be sustained over time. 
• Potential for replication in other settings. 
• Influence beyond the original organisation. 
• Wider benefits to healthcare systems. 

 IPS values 

Alongside the award-specific criteria, judges will consider how nominations reflect the values at the heart of IPS and our commitment to supporting the infection prevention community. This includes evidence of how nominees: 

• Support and empower the workforce to deliver safe, high-quality care. 
• Improve evidence-based IPC practice, surveillance and outcomes. 
• Engage diverse communities and promote equitable access and inclusion. 
• Create impact through leadership, education, collaboration and policy influence.