The work recognised in 2025 demonstrated that innovation is at its most powerful when it is purposeful. Much of the winning work made the complex accessible and addressed challenges related to stigma, inequity or misunderstanding. It also showed that impact is about more than outputs. It requires clear definitions, rigorous measurement and the willingness to be transparent about what worked and what did not.

These achievements reflect an industry that continues to evolve and challenge assumptions while staying focused on the value it creates for patients, healthcare professionals and broader society.

This momentum gives us confidence as we look ahead. Healthcare is shifting at pace, shaped by scientific advances, digital transformation, global pressures and rising expectations around transparency and equity. These forces present new challenges, but they also create remarkable opportunities for communications to shape understanding, strengthen trust and support better decision-making.

Against this backdrop, the theme for the 2026 Communiqué Awards is Future.

It reflects a sector that is adapting to rapid change and embracing new possibilities. We are inviting the industry to show how its work is shaping what comes next, whether through responsible innovation, deeper insight, new ways of thinking or the ability to anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s audiences. Above all, we want to recognise work that demonstrates confidence in the future of healthcare communications and its role in improving outcomes for patients, professionals and communities.

To reflect this future focus, the Awards have been strengthened and expanded. Several categories have been refined to mirror the sophistication of modern practice, while new awards have been introduced to recognise emerging disciplines across science, creativity and digital capability.

• Excellence in Congress Activation recognises the growing importance of congresses as integrated scientific touchpoints. This category rewards programmes that amplify scientific exchange before, during and after the congress moment
• Excellence in Behaviour Change reflects the increasing use of behavioural science in communication. It celebrates work that goes beyond awareness to drive measurable, ethical behaviour change rooted in real-world need
• Excellence in the Application of Artificial Intelligence acknowledges the rise of responsible, human-led AI. This award highlights work where AI enhances understanding, accessibility or efficiency while maintaining transparency and oversight
• Excellence in the Use of Data and Insights has been refocused to emphasise the translation of robust data and insight into strategic clarity, recognising programmes where evidence has shaped decisions and strengthened outcomes
• Excellence in Combined Customer Experience reflects the shift toward seamless, multi-touchpoint interaction. It celebrates work that delivers coherent, personalised and value-led experiences designed to build trust
• Excellence in Engagement Through Digital Channels highlights the growing impact of focused digital engagement. Two refined categories recognise programmes that deliver meaningful results, through a single, well-chosen platform and through multiple digital channels.

What inspires us most is the talent across our community. From early-career entrants to experienced specialists, we continue to see people pushing standards higher each year. Their work is diverse and ambitious, with a growing emphasis on clarity, accessibility and responsible innovation.

This year, we are also delighted to introduce a new individual award, Healthcare Communications Writer of the Year, recognising the vital contribution writers make to understanding, connection and progress across our sector. Their work often sits at the heart of meaningful communication, shaping conversations that improve health outcomes.

It is a privilege to celebrate this work. The Communiqué Awards remain committed to recognising excellence that reflects the real progress taking place across healthcare communications. We look forward to seeing how the industry responds to this year’s theme and how the entries for 2026 help shape the future of our field and the future of the industry we are proud to serve.