To be eligible, publications or broadcasts must have appeared in a Canadian consumer newspaper, magazine or broadcast report in Canada between 1 January and 31 December 2011.
Reaching the Canadian public at large with relevant and critical health information is a daunting task, particularly for non-profit organizations. This is why it is so important to recognize those who demonstrate initiative by preparing articles that help advance women's health. Public awareness, attitudes and behaviours are greatly influenced by the information Canadians receive in print, audio-visual and online media outlets.
"The role of mass media can be instrumental in modern health care" said Dr. Mark Heywood, President of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. "An accurate, timely, evidence-based and balanced article can go a long way to help Canadians make informed decisions about their health."
Submitted articles and reports will be judged by a panel of women's health experts and communication professionals. Evaluation is based on the overall merit of the entry, with an emphasis on the following evaluation criteria:
- Originality: The article/report was proactive rather than reactive; it is published in advance of, rather than in response to an announcement or someone else's story.
- Creativity: The information is presented in a unique, skillful and imaginative way, with a distinctive approach or angle.
- Substance of the story: The depth and quality of the research, consultation process, analysis, and presentation of the information in the article/report.
- Interpretation of medical information: The ability of the journalist to present complex information and issues in layman's terms, without compromising the scientific or professional integrity of the subject matter, and in a way that retains the interest of readers/listeners/viewers.
- Quality of writing and presentation: Proper grammatical use, interesting layout of the information, and readability.
- Clarity of the message: The purpose of the article/report is clear (e.g. increased awareness, change in perception or attitudes, call-to-action) and the significance of the subject matter for the reader/listener/viewer is apparent
- Education benefit to women: Women who read/hear/view the article/report would acquire important information to help them develop informed opinions and/or make informed decisions.
- Relevance: The information is pertinent, timely, accurate, and helps address a current issue or opportunity facing or affecting women's health today.
- Effectiveness: The article/report has the potential to catalyze national, regional, local and/or individual health priorities.
The winners will be notified by 7 May 2012. Recipients will be honoured at a ceremony to be held during the SOGC's Annual Clinical Meeting in Ottawa, Ontario, in June 2012.
Please visit www.sogc.org (Media Centre) to access the submission form. The submission deadline is 5 March 2012.
