Beyond Hail Mary
The Healthcare Innovation Challenge

About the event

Beyond Hail Mary is a fast-paced innovation challenge that pushes participants to move beyond textbook thinking and tackle real healthcare problems with practical, creative solutions.

In real clinical settings, not every situation has a clear answer—and that’s exactly what this event is built around. Participants will be placed in teams and challenged to analyse a problem, break it down, and come up with a solution that actually makes sense in the real world.

With no access to phones or external resources, participants rely entirely on their understanding, reasoning, and teamwork. It’s not just about having ideas—it’s about shaping them into something usable, realistic, and impactful.

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HOW THE EVENT WORKS:
Round 1: Abstract Submission (Elimination Round) 

Teams will be formed on the spot and assigned a healthcare challenge.
Time allotted for abstract writing: 20 + 5 minutes.
Within a limited time, teams must develop a structured concept covering:

• Understanding of the problem

• Proposed approach

• What makes the idea different

• Practical feasibility

• Expected real-world outcome

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This round is designed to test how quickly and clearly teams can think,
organize, and present their ideas.

5 Top-performing teams advance to the final round

Round 2: Final Pitch Round

Finalists will present their solutions using chart paper.
Time allotted for Chart preparation: 40 + 5 minutes.
7-minute presentation
3-minute interaction with the Judges Panel
Here, the focus shifts from “what is your idea” to “Does your idea actually work?”
Teams will be evaluated on how well they explain, justify, and defend their approach.

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GUIDELINES:

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• Open to undergraduate MBBS students

• Individual participation; teams will be formed during the event

• Each team will work on a problem assigned on the spot

• The competition includes one elimination round followed by a final presentation round

• Use of mobile phones or any electronic devices is not permitted during the event

• Any misconduct or use of unfair means will result in disqualification

• The decision of the judging panel will be final

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PARTICIPANT NOTES:

Participants should:

• Be ready to think on their feet and collaborate effectively

• Have a basic understanding of clinical concepts and healthcare systems

• Carry valid college identification

• Report on time for team formation and briefing

• Bring basic stationery if preferred; essential materials required for the event will be provided

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EVALUATION PARAMETERS:

Teams will be assessed on:

• Originality of the idea

• Practical applicability

• Relevance to real healthcare settings

• Clarity in communication

• Presentation skills

• Overall impact

• Team coordination and response to questions