Is the world of academic presentation a maze of deadlines and guidelines? Navigating the intricacies of poster abstract submissions, particularly within the realm of pharmacy, demands a keen understanding of deadlines, formatting, and the nuanced expectations of organizations like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
The pursuit of presenting research, sharing findings, and contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge is often a rewarding endeavor. However, the pathway to a successful poster presentation is paved with careful planning, diligent adherence to instructions, and a commitment to originality. This article aims to illuminate the key aspects of ASHP poster submission guidelines, providing clarity and insight for aspiring presenters.
The following information is critical for anyone considering submitting a poster abstract to ASHP, as it outlines the core requirements, deadlines, and expectations:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| 2017 ASHP Poster Submission Guidelines: | Focusing on the integrity of submissions, the guidelines state that abstracts suspected of being ghostwritten or commissioned by commercial entities for promotional purposes will be rejected. This emphasizes the importance of original research and the avoidance of conflicts of interest. |
| Submission Deadlines and Restrictions: | Deadlines are strict. For example, the 2024 submission deadline was August 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.. No new submissions or edits are accepted after this deadline. Similarly, the 2021 deadline was July 15, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. |
| Abstract Editing Policy: | ASHP will not edit abstracts, meaning authors must ensure their submissions are polished, error-free, and meet all formatting requirements before the deadline. |
| Incomplete Abstracts: | Incomplete abstracts are deleted after the deadline. This underscores the importance of completing all sections of the submission form and providing all required information. |
| Notification Timeline: | Submitters typically receive notification about the status of their poster abstract after a specific date. This timeline is crucial for planning and preparation, as authors must be ready to present their work if accepted. |
| Presentation Requirement: | An author, preferably the primary author, must be available to present the poster during the assigned time if the abstract is accepted. This highlights the importance of commitment and the ability to articulate the research. |
| Prior Publication: | Abstracts should not have been presented or published previously, with the exception of presentations at virtual national conferences. This emphasizes the originality of the work being presented. |
| Student and Resident Guidelines: | Students and residents are often subject to specific rules, such as limits on the number of abstracts submitted per primary author. Understanding these nuances is crucial for avoiding disqualification. |
The ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting is a significant event for pharmacy professionals, and the poster sessions provide an invaluable platform for sharing research, networking, and learning. The 2016 Midyear Resident & Fellows Poster Submission Rules & Format Guidelines highlighted three poster types, emphasizing that abstract content and word limits were determined by the poster type selected. This underlines the importance of choosing the correct format for the research.
For those participating in the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, the location of poster sessions matters. Additionally, the poster abstract submission process requires careful attention to detail. The selection of a submission category is important to ensure that the abstract is appropriately reviewed. Furthermore, the abstract content must be entered accurately and completely, with only completed submissions included in the review process. For student specific guidelines, there is a task 1: Poster abstract submission to guide the process.
A well-crafted abstract serves as the gateway to a successful poster presentation. Consider the example provided: "Assessing pharmacist competency for processing adult chemotherapy orders in a community hospital." This is a typical example of a descriptive report poster abstract. Authors should strive for clarity, conciseness, and adherence to all specified guidelines.
Critical Dates and Timelines
The deadlines are non-negotiable. Missing the deadline means that the abstract will not be considered. Dates are usually set several months in advance to allow for ample preparation time. For example, in 2021 the submission deadline was July 15, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. and in 2024, it was August 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.. Authors should also be aware of the date when they will be notified about the status of their abstract. For example, submitters would receive notification after April 15, for submissions for the 2017 conference.
Submission Categories
The specific category to choose depends on the content of the abstract. ASHP provides a dropdown menu. Selecting the correct category ensures the abstract is reviewed by experts in that specific area.
The Review Process
ASHP uses a rigorous review process to evaluate the submitted abstracts. Completeness, clarity, originality, and adherence to the guidelines are key factors in the review process. The reviewers assess the quality of the research, the significance of the findings, and the overall presentation.
Poster Presentation: Best Practices
Once an abstract is accepted, the focus shifts to creating an impactful poster and preparing for the presentation. Authors should familiarize themselves with the ASHP poster presenter handbook. During the poster session, the presenting author should be available during the assigned time to discuss the research with attendees. Key tips for a successful presentation include:
- Poster Design: A visually appealing poster. Clear headings, concise text, and effective use of graphics are essential.
- Presentation Skills: Practice delivering a clear and concise summary of the research. Be prepared to answer questions.
- Engagement: Actively engage with attendees, answer questions thoughtfully, and be prepared to discuss the implications of the research.
Resources and Support
ASHP provides several resources to support authors throughout the submission and presentation process. Review the ASHP poster presenter handbook, it can often provide templates, examples, and helpful tips.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Several factors can lead to abstract rejection. These include:
- Missing Deadlines: Submitting after the deadline is a guaranteed reason for rejection.
- Non-compliance with Guidelines: Failure to adhere to formatting, word limits, and other specific requirements.
- Poor Writing Quality: Unclear, poorly organized, or grammatically incorrect writing.
- Lack of Originality: Submitting previously published work or abstracts that lack original research findings.
- Conflicts of Interest: Failure to declare or disclose potential conflicts of interest.
The entire process, from abstract submission to presentation, is a valuable experience for pharmacy professionals. By following the guidelines, focusing on quality research, and preparing effectively, authors can maximize their chances of success and contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge.
Conclusion
Navigating the ASHP poster submission process requires dedication, attention to detail, and a commitment to presenting high-quality research. Understanding the guidelines, adhering to deadlines, and preparing a compelling presentation are essential for success. Remember to review the ASHP poster presenter handbook, refine your presentation, and be prepared to share your research with your peers and colleagues.
