Scotland’s Health Awards are opportunity to shine a light on innovation in research excellence
The research community across Scotland is being encouraged to showcase breakthrough achievements by entering Scotland's Health Awards
Nominations are now open for this year's awards, with the Innovation category in particular offering an opportunity for an individual, group, or team to be recognised for developing groundbreaking research approaches to aims for improving health and social care outcomes.
Organisers say that “innovation has many forms and this award recognises clinical and non-clinical innovation. It includes research, use of new or emerging technologies, new ways of working, or faster, smarter access to services and treatments”.
Taking place on the evening of Thursday 12 November at Edinburgh’s Corn Exchange, the gathering is being held in partnership with NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government for a third year.
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientist (Health) at Scottish Government said: “I am always delighted to hear about new ways to champion research excellence and a nomination for the Innovation category of Scotland’s Health Awards is a great way to do that.
“Research and innovation in the NHS are vital in helping to ensure the delivery of high-quality health and social care services to the people of Scotland. Continued work on our understanding of disease and illness, and in the treatments used to tackle them, improves lives across Scotland. Those who continue to pursue innovative new treatments and ways of working should be celebrated.
“People who think differently and push the boundaries of the possible are colleagues that we can be immensely proud of, so I would urge you to shine a light on their innovative efforts.”
Nominations will be accepted for individuals and/or teams working in NHS, Health and Social Care Partnership, or another healthcare-focused organisation within Scotland.
According to organisers, the awards’ 17 categories exemplify “the extraordinary achievements of those individuals and teams who go above and beyond to deliver compassionate, high-quality health and social care to the people of Scotland,” whether working on the frontline or in vital support roles.
It is expected that the ceremony and gala dinner will be attended by over 450 guests.
Scotland’s new Cabinet Secretary for Health and Care, Angela Constance said: “Scotland’s Health Awards are about recognising the extraordinary efforts that make a lasting difference to the lives of patients, families and communities.
“For staff and volunteers, it’s a powerful reminder that their work is valued and appreciated.
“I would encourage everyone to please take the time to nominate and say thank you on behalf of all of us.”
Nominations close on Sunday 23 August, but voting on the Readers’ Choice Award, which is hand-selected by the public themselves, will be open until October.
Publication date: 16th June 2026
