The purpose of the Poster & Abstract Competition, as part of the 2025 Health Care & Innovation Summit on October 22, is to stimulate systematic investigation by health care professionals, provide a venue to share innovative and effective programs, showcase unique projects, and encourage networking among peers with similar interests. Deadline for submissions is July 7, 2025.

Awards:
1 Gold – $750
1 Silver – $500
1 Bronze – $250

Abstract Instructions

The abstract is a stand-alone summary that clearly and succinctly conveys the essential information of a project or study. The abstract should use a performance improvement methodology. The abstract is not to exceed 300 words (the 300 words does not include title or authors).

  • Use single spacing throughout and indent the paragraphs.
  • Use a 10-point Arial font with one-inch margins.
  • Do not give references in the abstract.
  • Clarity of expression will be considered.
  • If using abbreviations, place them in parentheses after the full word the first time it appears.
  • Abstracts should not include endorsements, sponsors, brand names or bias toward a product or service.
  • Abstracts should convey essential information, follow logical format, data and visuals should be clear and concise, and convey the improvement process(es).

Poster Instructions

A poster is a visual guide that summarizes information or research concisely and attractively to help publicize it and generate discussion. The poster is typically a mixture of a brief text with tables, graphs, pictures, and other presentation formats. Each poster needs to include the following:

  • The poster must be submitted in landscape orientation as a PDF.
  • Size should be scaled to 36” W x 24” H for printing.
  • Once printed, posters should be able to be displayed on an easel. Click aqui for example of a mounted poster.
  • The word count should not exceed 800 words.
  • You may reference 2024 Poster Submissions aqui.

Visuals & Text

  • Present numerical data in the form of graphs, rather than words or tables (graphs make trends in the data much more evident). If data must be presented in table form, keep it simple.
  • Visuals should be simple and bold.
  • Avoid acronyms and extensive mathematical notations as much as possible.
  • Avoid submitting compactly packed, high word-count posters.
  • Use bright colors to enhance the detail.
  • Besides your project, the text could also include future research plans or questions.
  • Key components of a QI Poster include title and authors, background and introduction, methodologies, results, conclusion and references (approximately 3-6 references).

Judging Criteria

INNOVATION

  • Innovative techniques within patient safety and quality
  • Novel approach to improve existing practices

REPLICABILITY

  • Ability to be adopted by others

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

  • Identification and improvement of processes or outcomes
  • Use of performance improvement methodologies [e.g., PDCA, lean, six sigma]

DEMONSTRATED IMPACT

  • Measurable improvement to patient safety or quality
  • Addresses positive outcome or lessons learned

Other Considerations

  • All scores are final and confidential. DCHA does not provide individual feedback from reviewers or release the identity of the review group.
  • All submissions will be asked to print their posters for display at the Summit.
  • Award winners will present during a session at the Summit. One award winner per poster will be provided with a complimentary registration.
  • Judges will be excluded from judging submissions from their hospital or health system.

© 2025. District of Columbia Hospital Association.