Call for problems - Abstract submission BMJ Future Health

The call for problems is now open.

Do you have a challenge or pressing issue in healthcare that needs fresh thinking?

Submit your problem for expert review and the chance to present it at the BMJ Future Health Conference this November.

Submissions close on Thursday 31 July 2025!

Bridging the gap between problems and solutions

We believe the best advances in health come from a true understanding of the challenges faced by patients, health professionals and the wider system at the point of need - or preferably before. We frequently see great solutions to problems that don’t really exist.

So rather than calling for abstracts that describe innovations or solutions - we’re instead issuing a call for problems. Clearly articulating what needs to be fixed or improved to people who might be able to help is an important first step in transforming health.

These problems will be assessed by our expert panel and the individual or team presenting them will be invited to present their problem, and get further expert input at a workshop at BMJ Future Health conference in November.

During this year's conference we have six content pillars for the audience to learn from and you can choose which of these best fit your problem:

Practical adoption of AI in healthcare
Redesigning clinical pathways through virtual and preventative care
Workforce and digital skills in healthcare
Driving frontline adoption and use of digital health
Addressing health inequalities through digital innovation
Leadership and culture

Ensure that you get your submission in by no later than Thursday 31 July and we will be in contact by mid September with our reviews.

Submit your problem

A step-by-step guide on your problem

Dr. Helen Surana has put together a series of short videos explaining what exactly a call for problems is and how you can submit your own problem to shape the future of the health and care industry.

These are short videos packed with information.

View the videos here

Complete your Call for Problems submission by giving us the details described below.

For more guidance and advice you can watch our webinar led by product expert Randeep Sidhu on how you can pitch the problem.

What is your summary problem statement?

What is the problem?

What is happening now?
How do you know a problem exists?
What can you observe that is happening now?
What can you see in the data?
How big (or widespread) is the problem?

What would happen if the problem is solved?

What is happening because of the problem you've described above?
What does the data tell you?
What metrics would you use to measure if the problem is solved?

Background and context

What is the context?
Who are the users?
Has anyone tried to fix this before?

The problems will be assessed by our expert panel and the individual or team presenting them will be invited to present their problem, and get further expert input at a workshop at BMJ Future Health conference in November.

You will be contacted by mid September with further instructions if your problem has been selected to be showcased in our 'Problems Expo' during BMJ Future Health Conference on 6 - 7 November.

Submit your problem