BMJ Group impact report 2025. Improving health outcomes worldwide - these are our success stories.
Impact report 2025 Improving health outcomes worldwide
Better evidence Better decisions
Better systems
Impact report 2022
Helping to create a healthier world since 1840 As a leading global healthcare knowledge provider, we share knowledge and expertise to improve health outcomes.
A trusted source Nearly 80 million users a year rely on BMJ Group websites for trusted research and clinical information.***
A strong international presence With 450 staff based in offices across the United Kingdom, North America, India and China, we deliver local impact with global reach.
A top 10 p olicy influencer BMJ Group ranked 8th globally in influencing clinical guidelines and policy documents between 2020 and 2024.* We were cited in nearly 6,200 new and updated policy documents and clinical guidelines in 2024.**
An expert network Through ScholarOne, we work with 3.7 million authors and peer reviewers who help ensure the rigour, accuracy, and credibility of the evidence based research we publish.
A top-tier publisher The BMJ , (JIF 42.7) ranks 4th in general medicine and 5th worldwide including review journals, consistently in the top five globally
A preferred global partner More than 10,000 institutions worldwide subscribe to BMJ Group tools and resources.
*Excluding non-publishers like the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and JSTOR. Additionally, looking at all-time citations (excluding non-publishers), BMJ Group ranks 9th among all research publishers cited in clinical and policy guidance. Sources: *BMJ Impact Analytics **Dimensions, BMJ Impact Analytics, *** Google Analytics
Progress with purpose A ripple effect of impact
From research to real world results, we’re shaping stronger health systems and better patient outcomes everywhere. This impact report tells the story of what we’ve achieved together in 2024. We highlight progress in research, education, publishing, and policy, and the ripple effect that better knowledge creates for patients and health systems worldwide. Our vision is a healthier world where knowledge transforms care. BMJ Group helps make that vision a reality by equipping health professionals with the evidence, insight, and tools they need to shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time. As a global healthcare knowledge provider and wholly owned subsidiary of the British Medical Association (BMA), we remain focused on our founding purpose: to improve patient outcomes. We also know that lasting impact comes through collaboration. That is why we are proud to have been selected by the Department of Health and Social Care to lead and coordinate the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s Public Partnerships and Maximising Research Impact activities for the next seven years. Together with our partners, we are empowering health communities to not just survive, but thrive.
BMJ Journals Advancing medical science and clinical practice
We’ve been publishing trusted medical research for over 185 years. Today, our 65+ titles span clinical specialties, public health, and emerging fields. Every journal in our portfolio delivers the most rigorous and reliable evidence needed to shape policy, guide clinical decisions, and advance global health.
Leading medical knowledge worldwide 12th most cited in Clinical Medicine and Science 11th in Public Health 9th in Health Services Research* BMJ Medicine made a strong debut with its first full Impact Factor of 10, ranked 11th in general medicine.
Strength across the collection Over half (52%) of our indexed journals rank in Q1, with more than 20% in the top 10 of their category, including eight titles in the global top five 80% are in the top half of their category, demonstrating consistent performance across the portfolio
Addressing the diverse needs of the medical community We’ve broadened global access by publishing over 95,000 open access articles and making 585,000+ more free to read across multiple platforms Gold and hybrid open access articles have received more than 2.5 million citations in total, across all time Since May 2024, our open access content has generated 31 million article views from 15 million users across 190+ countries
* Based on articles published in 2024 Sources: Journal Citation Reports, Clarivate, Altmetric, Dimensions, and Google Analytics 2025
Retaining impressive rankings The Journal Impact Factor (JIF) is a widely used measure of average citations and is often seen as a marker of a journal’s influence. But no single metric can capture the whole picture. As a DORA signatory, BMJ Group offers a more balanced view of research impact. Alongside JIF, we share CiteScore, Altmetric mentions, time to first decision, and more, all available on our journal sites. These metrics help institutions assess quality, reach, and timeliness, and make informed decisions about where to subscribe and publish.
For a complete list of our journals, visit journals.bmj.com
British Journal of Sports Medicine Number 1 out of 133 in Sports Sciences 16.2 JIF | 21 CiteScore Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery Number 2 out of 16 in Neuroimaging 4.3 JIF | 8.8 CiteScore
Journal of Medical Ethics Number 4 out of 124 in Medical Ethics 6.5 JIF | 8.1 CiteScore
Tobacco Control Number 4 out of 58 in Substance Abuse 4.7 JIF | 9.8 CiteScore
BMJ Quality and Safety Number 4 out of 124 in Health Policy & Services 6.9 JIF | 10.8 CiteScore
The BMJ Number 5 out of 332
in Medicine, General & Internal 42.7 JIF | 20.4 CiteScore
Family Medicine and Community Health Number 4 out of 28 in Primary Health Care 4.3 JIF | 5 CiteScore
BMJ Mental Health Number 6 out of 288 in Psychiatry – Clinical Medicine 11.4 JIF | 7.9 CiteScore
GUT Number 4 out of 147 in Gastroenterology & Hepatology 25.8 JIF | 46.7 CiteScore
Raised global awareness of a rare but serious risk of uterohydronephrosis linked to menstrual cup use
Spotlight on safety A case report that made global headlines
25,000+ views of the study in the first month alone
When Dr Clara Maarup Prip, a urologist and gynaecologist at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, encountered a rare case of kidney swelling (ureterohydronephrosis) caused by a menstrual cup, it was unlike anything she had seen before. The menstrual cup had been compressing the ureter where it enters the bladder, leading to a serious but rare complication. After searching the literature and finding only a handful of similar cases worldwide, Dr Maarup Prip documented the case and submitted the report titled, “Ureterohydronephrosis due to a menstrual cup” 1 to BMJ Case Reports , choosing the journal based on its reputation and guidance from experienced colleagues. Dr Maarup Prip didn’t expect the case report to go viral. Published in BMJ Case Reports in February 2025, the paper caught the attention of health journalists worldwide as a direct result of it being press released by BMJ Group’s media relations team. Within weeks, it had become the basis of 29 news stories from 23 major international outlets. It also prompted four opinion pieces in the UK, the USA, and Russia.
29 media stories across 23 major international outlets
Featured on the BBC World Service Newshour programme and picked up by journalists in the UK, Germany, and the USA Sparked four opinion pieces in the UK, the USA, and Russia, prompting professional and public discussion
Altmetric score of 234 , placing it in the top 5% of all tracked research outputs
Triggered practical guidance: many news outlets included safety advice and how-to videos for the public Demonstrated value with no funding required, just a sharp clinical eye and the right publishing partner
“We weren’t funded, and it didn’t take long to write. But the response shows just how much value a single case report can bring.” Clara Maarup Prip , urologist and gynaecologist, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
Academic literature rarely cites case reports, but that doesn’t mean they lack tangible impact. It just means they need to be measured differently: not by how they affect a journal’s impact factor, but by the value they bring to clinical education, practice, and patient safety.
How evidence based policy can drive meaningful change Leveraging research to prevent injury Researchers from the University of Calgary in Canada published a paper in 2015 titled, “Policy change eliminating body checking in non-elite ice hockey leads to a threefold reduction in injury and concussion risk in 11 and 12 year old players ” in the British Journal of Sports Medicine . This study has been cited 90 times across seven categories, with nearly 20% of those citations occurring within two years. It has outperformed other publications in sports science, receiving about 13 times more citations than average. Highly influential, the paper led to a policy change banning body checking in non-elite ice hockey for 11 and 12 year olds, resulting in a threefold reduction in injury and concussion risk. This example shows how evidence based research can drive meaningful change. It highlights the powerful role that well placed evidence plays in shaping effective, real world policies and improving athlete safety.
#1 title in Sports Sciences, four years running
“The British Journal of Sports Medicine is proud to publish the best research in injury prevention for sport and exercise medicine.” Professor Jonathan Drezner , editor in chief of the British Journal of Sports Medicine and director of the UW Center for Sports Cardiology, Husky Stadium, Seattle, USA
Championing the rights and health of street and working children BMJ Paediatrics Open and editorial leadership Millions of children live and work on the streets, facing violence, exploitation, and exclusion. Led by Professor Shanti Raman, a consultant paediatrician and children’s rights advocate, the global Street and Working Children (SWC) Working Group develops practical tools and advocacy resources to improve the health, wellbeing, and rights of street and working children. Under Dr Raman’s editorial leadership, BMJ Paediatrics Open has been a crucial platform for this work. The journal’s special collection on Street and Working Children features published papers that give health professionals and policy makers rigorous, evidence informed research and practical tools to address the complex needs of street and working children. It offers insights into effective health interventions, rights based approaches, and multidisciplinary strategies, enabling professionals to make informed decisions and design targeted programmes. Through this collection and a range of targeted initiatives, the SWC has amplified the voices of young people with lived experience. Their stories, hopes, and aspirations have been captured in the BMJ Paediatrics Open collection and shared internationally, including at the International Pediatric Association Congress.
“Through BMJ Paediatrics Open, we’re not just publishing research, we’re empowering clinicians and amplifying children’s voices too often ignored.” Professor Shanti Raman , consultant paediatrician and editor in chief of BMJ Paediatrics Open
Local solutions, global impact For over 20 years, we’ve amplified underrepresented voices in research. Since introducing full article processing charge (APC) waivers in 2022, we’ve granted 70% more waivers to authors from low and middle income countries (LMICs) compared to the three years before the policy began. In the past year alone, 3 nearly 10% of the open access research we published came from LMIC authors. We have also provided free online access to our journals through Research4Life (R4L) , giving more than 11,000 institutions in 125 low and middle income countries access to research.
Our approach is helping close the knowledge gap. In early 2025, nearly 95% of all LMIC- originated research was published open access, up from 36% in 2021 and 56% in 2022.
In August 2021, Dr Bruce Kirenga and his team at the Makerere University Lung Institute published a pivotal study in BMJ Open Respiratory Research on the efficacy of convalescent plasma for covid-19 treatment in Uganda . 4 The study’s findings on the limited efficacy of convalescent plasma (CP) helped shape major treatment guidelines. In Therapeutics and COVID-19: Living guideline, the World Health Organization (WHO) strongly advises against CP for all severity levels of covid-19 due to limited benefit and potential safety risks. The National Institutes of Health similarly recommends against CP outside of clinical trials, except in rare cases involving immunocompromised patients. 5 The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also discourages routine use, 6 reinforcing a shift towards more effective therapies like antivirals and monoclonal antibodies. Where most publications in the biomedical and clinical sciences field receive only two to three citations, this study has far exceeded that benchmark. BMJ Impact Analytics shows 46 citations in health policy, eight in clinical guidance, How Ugandan research shaped covid-19 treatment
and uptake across five countries. 7 Such reach underlines its role in shaping evidence informed global health practice. Dr Kirenga and his team chose open access to ensure their research reached a global audience without barriers, facilitating faster dissemination of critical findings. Making their work freely available enabled healthcare professionals and policymakers in LMICs to access the latest evidence on affordable and accessible therapies.
“Open access publishing ensures the publications are available to everyone, including scientists and policymakers in resource poor settings.”
Dr Bruce Kirenga , chief research scientist and founding director of the Makerere University Lung Institute
Shining a light on research influence How the Office of Health Economics uses BMJ Impact Analytics to demonstrate value to funders BMJ Impac t Analytics is a powerful tool designed to track where and how health research is being used in an academic context to improve health outcomes, in policy documents, clinical guidelines, and even at the point of patient care. The tool filled a critical gap for the Office of Health Economics (OHE) by allowing the organisation to track how its research and policy outputs affect healthcare guidelines worldwide. “BMJ Impact Analytics has given us valuable insight into how our research is being received and used. It’s helped us stay relevant and responsive without compromising our integrity. That was the missing piece for us.” Charlotte Ashton-Khan , director of external affairs, Office of Health Economics Using BMJ Impact Analytics , OHE discovered that policymakers and guideline developers had cited 27% of their research outputs—four times the global average of under 6%. 8 For an organisation that conducts commissioned research, this visibility is vital. It helps them demonstrate value to funders and reinforces the credibility and reach of their work. The tool also helped OHE uncover real world uptake of specific research. One example is an OHE paper, “New Drugs to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance”, 9 which BMJ Impact Analytics shows was cited by policy documents in three countries, showcasing its role in shaping international approaches to a global health threat. Even more, BMJ Impact Analytics confirmed that some of the most influential health agencies have cited research by OHE senior economist Grace Hampson on real world evidence for coverage decisions. 10 Notably, the US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), Canada’s Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS), and the Australian Government Department of Health have included this work in their policy and clinical guidance. This recognition underlines OHE’s global role as a trusted voice in evidence based healthcare funding.
BMJ Impact Analytics Helping researchers, institutions, and partners to: Prove influence: evidence of real world policy citations to help strengthen future funding bids Stay relevant: understand how and where research is being used
Inform strategy: use citation insights to guide future publications and stakeholder engagement Demonstrate accountability: especially vital for organisations producing commissioned research
As funders increasingly demand proof that research leads to real change, BMJ Impact Analytics helps researchers secure future funding by clearly demonstrating the impact of their work on academic knowledge and clinical practice.
Impact beyond the headlines Revealing the true reach of the research we publish Research published in The BMJ often ignites immediate discussion, but its influence reaches far beyond academic citations. A striking example is the 2024 study Ultra-processed food exposure and
adverse health outcomes: umbrella review of epidemiological meta-analyses 11 by Dr Melissa Lane and colleagues from Deakin University, Australia. Their work found consistent evidence linking high consumption of ultra-processed foods to increased risks of 32 serious health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, and premature death. Following a global press release by BMJ Group’s media relations team, the study achieved remarkable and swift reach across 450 news outlets. In addition, it garnered attention well beyond news headlines. To fully understand its impact, we turn to BMJ Impact Analytics , which tracks citations in policy documents, reports, and influential analyses, areas that conventional metrics often overlook. This deeper insight reveals that the study ranks in the top 1% of outputs from The BMJ . It has been cited in 11 UK Parliament select committee reports, three Food Foundation publications, five United Nations documents,
and major reports from the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, the World Bank, and the World Food Programme. Most recently, it was cited by the American Council on Science and Health. 12
Correcting the record to enhance patient care Retractions play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of academic publishing and ensuring research credibility. While they are often viewed negatively due to concerns about reputational damage and career impact, BMJ Group sees them as crucial to scientific progress. They improve quality and rigour, reinforce trust, refine evidence, and improve patient care. After identifying a methodological error, Dr Brian Nicholson and his team at the University of Oxford worked closely with The BMJ to retract and publish an updated version of Prioritising primary care patients with unexpected weight loss for cancer investigation: diagnostic accuracy study. 13 In March 2023, The BMJ published an expression of concern, followed by the retraction and a new publication in The BMJ in October. The journal informed the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) about the retraction, as the study had the potential to shape recommendations on referring individuals with unexplained weight loss in primary care to specialist services. The updated analysis revealed a striking shift in findings. Expanding the study population from 64,000 to over 326,000 patients and correcting the error, the 2023 update found that nearly 5% of those with unexpected weight loss were diagnosed with cancer within six months, compared to almost 1.5% in the original 2020 results. These updated findings led to revised clinical recommendations, 14 now advising urgent cancer referrals for all men aged 50+, women aged 60+, and younger patients with specific symptoms. They include an increase in recognised clinical features associated with cancer in men (from 10 to 20) and women (from 11 to 17), improving diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, Nicholson’s paper provides valuable evidence to help assess and refine guideline implementation by demonstrating the practical implications of NICE’s recommendations on cancer investigation.
“We found the journal very responsive to our approach for advice about what we should do next.” Brian D Nicholson , academic clinical lecturer, associate professor, and general practitioner, Oxford University, UK
Flour fortification with folic acid A major step forward for UK public health In November 2024, the UK government announced legislation mandating folic acid fortification of non-wholemeal wheat flour, effective by the end of 2026. This landmark policy will reduce neural tube defects (NTDs), serious congenital anomalies affecting brain and spinal cord development that can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or lifelong disability. Despite longstanding recommendations by public health authorities such as the UK National Health Service (NHS) 15 and the World Health Organization (WHO) for women to take folic acid (vitamin B9) supplements before conception, many start too late or not at all.
Professor Sir Nicholas Wald carried out the research, published in 1991 , 16 which showed that NTDs are folate deficient disorders. He has been a leading advocate for a mandatory folic acid fortification policy. His June 2024 BMJ Opinion piece, Folic acid fortification: will the new UK government pass the ‘acid test’?, 17 makes the case for extending fortification to all flour and rice. Although Hansard does not cite Professor Wald’s 2024 article by name, his influence is unmistakable. The House of Lords debate, recorded at the end of 2024 18 references the scientific foundation behind the new folic acid legislation, built on decades of Professor Wald’s research and public advocacy. Notably, Lord Rooker asked whether the Secretary of State had contacted Professor Wald directly, recognising him as a key scientific authority. This public acknowledgement suggests that Professor Wald’s research did help to inform the evidence base that the government drew upon. 19
“The UK’s decision to mandate folic acid fortification of non-wholemeal wheat flour marks a long overdue but hugely important advance in public health. I commend The BMJ for continuing to publish evidence based arguments that influence and inform public debate.” Professor Sir Nicholas Wald , professor of preventive medicine, University College London, UK
Building a powerful advocacy voice How a BMJ Opinion piece sparked a movement beyond clinical practice A powerful blend of professional expertise, personal experience, and a growing public platform has marked Dr Seema Haider’s journey into advocacy. As a general practitioner with a deep understanding of the complexities of domestic abuse, her recent involvement in a vital documentary project reflects how a single act of sharing her story in The BMJ has expanded her impact well beyond clinical practice.
Dr Haider’s journey began with a BMJ Opinion piece she authored, “Courage is contagious: we need to talk about the domestic abuse experienced by female doctors in the NHS”, 20 that resonated widely within the medical community and beyond. She was approached by True Vision, a production company known for powerful human rights documentaries, to appear in Breaking the Silence: Kate’s Story, which aired on ITVX. “The power of this article is rooted in the lived experience. It has been a privilege to work with True Vision to open up this dialogue beyond the walls of the NHS. It has helped me reclaim my voice and been healing.” Dr Seema Haider , general practitioner partner and trainer, Haiderian Medical Centre, UK Her article offered a deeply personal account of her experiences with coercive control and the challenges faced by healthcare professionals who are themselves survivors of domestic abuse. It highlighted the critical need for greater understanding and support within healthcare settings, where the signs of abuse can be easily missed, even among clinicians. Reflecting on this journey, Dr Haider recognised the power of The BMJ to connect clinicians’ voices with broader societal conversations. Just days after her piece was published, True Vision noticed it, drawn to the strength of her story and the credibility of the platform that shared it.
Dr Haider notes a profound shift in her career trajectory since the article’s publication. It not only opened doors to
new forms of advocacy but also broadened her perspective on the many ways in which a clinician’s voice can make a difference. She has since collaborated with the University of Bristol in the UK and Practitioner Health magazine on research into supporting doctors who experience abuse. She has become a sought-after speaker, helping to inform and train healthcare professionals and shape the future of medical education. Dr Haider regularly teaches GP training schemes and speaks at national conferences like the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) Women’s Conference. She has also provided training for Integrated Care Board (ICB) safeguarding teams, responsible for protecting the health and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals. This experience highlights how The BMJ can amplify important, often underrepresented voices, extending their reach to new audiences and creating unexpected paths for change.
Better decisions Backed by over 40 published studies, BMJ Best Practice is proven to drive quality improvements in primary, secondary and tertiary settings. 21 As patient needs become more complex, health professionals need evidence based support at the point of care. BMJ Best Practice equips clinicians with the tools to make informed, personalised decisions, helping to improve outcomes across every level of care. Its Comorbidities Manager is the only tool that offers tailored plans for patients with multiple conditions.
Improving clinical decisions
High user satisfaction
Global reach and sustained use Providing clinical decision support to institutional subscribers in over 50 countries Accredited by 65+ organisations worldwide 26 National access is available across NHS England, Scotland, Wales, the Republic of Ireland, and Norway (as of July 2025) Since its conception in 2009, BMJ Best Practice has been consistently used by global institutions, hospitals, and clinics in over 100 countries
Integrated into BMJ Best Practice , the Comorbidities Manager is the only tool that offers tailored plans for patients with multiple conditions. It now has over 50,000 guideline combinations 86% of doctors agreed that the information provided by BMJ Best Practice had enabled them to make an evidence based diagnosis 22 Proven to improve diagnostic accuracy by nearly 7% when BMJ Best Practice is integrated into electronic health records 23 115% improved usage of sessions via EHR integration tools (search widget + link) across the NHS 1,000 to 11,000 (Q2 2024 vs Q2 2025)
75% of 1,000 CME respondents said BMJ Best Practice activity helped them to improve the care they give to patients 24 82% of 1,000 users said BMJ Best Practice activity helped them keep their knowledge current for continuing medical education purposes 25 App rated 4.8-4.9 stars on iOS and Android (2025) Among the highest-rated clinical decision support apps globally
Enabling systemic change through evidence based practice How working with BMJ Group is helping Cyprus translate evidence into everyday practice The Cyprus Ministry of Health’s launch of the National Centre for Clinical Evidence and Quality in Healthcare (NCCE) marks a milestone in national healthcare reform. BMJ Group is a trusted strategic partner in this transformation, contributing evidence based tools, clinical expertise, and a collaborative approach to drive long term system change. At its core is the NCCE’s new digital platform, which integrates BMJ Best Practice , a globally trusted clinical decision support tool. The latter enables consistent decisions at the point of care and provides accredited continuing education for clinicians nationwide. BMJ Group’s role goes far beyond technology. As a member of the national consortium, we are helping develop 90 Cyprus specific clinical tools, national guidelines, pathways and protocols. Drawing on international guidance and BMJ Best Practice , the material is translated into Greek and integrated into the platform via the local guidance tool available within BMJ Best Practice . BMJ Group helped map specialties and prioritise the most common conditions, ensuring the most pressing care needs are addressed first during clinical practice. Together with the NCCE, our medically qualified experts designed the production process for each new clinical tool. We provided training on the ADAPTE framework, an internationally recognised method for adapting evidence based guidelines to local contexts, and on peer review to ensure adapted guidelines meet the highest standards.
“BMJ [Group]’s tools and events don’t just inform our thinking - they shape it.” Professor George Samoutis , chairman of the coordination committee of the National Centre for Clinical Evidence, Cyprus
Combatting misinformation and empowering patient decisions The impact of BMJ Best Practice in Ireland
In a world flooded with misinformation and unreliable health advice, trusted medical information has never been more critical. Misinformation risks patient safety, reduces vaccine uptake, delays treatment, and erodes the trust essential to effective healthcare. According to the WHO, poor quality or incorrect health information increases pressure on health services, delays diagnosis, leads to inappropriate treatment, and causes avoidable complications. 27 Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) is tackling the challenge of misinformation head on. As part of its national subscription to BMJ Best Practice , HSE provides health professionals with access to
BMJ Best Practice patient information . These concise, evidence based patient leaflets help reassure patients and carers and promote informed, shared decision making. Health professionals use our patient leaflets during consultations to explain diagnoses and treatment options clearly, reduce confusion and provide patients with reliable, easy-to-understand content they can print, download or take home. By embedding accurate, accessible information into routine care, the Health Service Executive enables confident clinical decisions and improves patient outcomes across Ireland. BMJ Best Practice patient leaflets are widely used across the Health Service Executive to strengthen communication between healthcare professionals and patients. An internal HSE report (2024) recorded 288,000 sessions and 1.7 million interactions in one year, underlining their value in daily clinical practice.
Building trust and reducing healthcare burdens The Health Service Executive’s network of 28 libraries spans three regions across Ireland: east, south and west. These healthcare library services have traditionally focused on staff needs. However, the introduction of BMJ Best Practice has enabled a meaningful shift towards empowering patients and the public with trusted, evidence based health information. This move is backed by findings from the National Health Library and Knowledge Service’s 2021 user survey, which showed that access to accurate, accessible information improves clinical decisions and patient outcomes, reduces unnecessary tests, adverse drug events and misdiagnoses, and helps ease pressure on healthcare systems. “Part of the value of making a resource available universally, for all Irish citizens, is that it improves conversations between healthcare professionals and patients, and supports shared decision-making around treatments or lifestyle choices.” Brendan Leen , area library manager (HSE Library), Health Service Executive, Ireland Encouraged by the success of BMJ Best Practice , the HSE is considering expanding its library services to enhance patient education and advocacy further. These services include creating a dedicated post focused on patient information. This role would be responsible for developing the best evidence based health information resources for patients, promoting health literacy, and enabling patients to play an active role in decisions about their care.
Helping doctors navigate new health systems with confidence When Dr Anish John Kuriakose moved to the UK to practise medicine, he faced a challenge familiar to many international clinicians navigating a new healthcare system with different guidelines and expectations. For him, BMJ Best Practice became a crucial bridge. Now a BMJ Best Practice clinical champion, Dr Kuriakose uses his experience to advocate for the power of evidence based decision support tools. His commitment stems from what he sees daily on the frontline: patient care improves when doctors have instant access to reliable, current clinical guidance. One example came during a medical on-call shift when he encountered a patient in thyroid storm, a rare and potentially life threatening emergency outside his gastroenterology expertise. BMJ Best Practice’s precise, structured algorithms gave him the clarity and speed needed to act decisively and safely. He’s had this experience repeatedly, and it’s changed the way he works. “BMJ Best Practice helped me transition to UK care based guidelines quite quickly. I would have struggled using any other resource.” Dr Anish John Kuriakose , gastroenterology and general internal medicine registrar, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
Precision in practice How digital learning is saving lives in sport
BMJ Learning Evidence of effectiveness 29
BMJ Learning has been a trusted provider of healthcare education for over 20 years, helping health professionals worldwide enhance their skills and improve patient outcomes. A 2018 study published in Heart titled, “Performance of BMJ Learning training modules for electrocardiogram interpretation in athletes”, 28 provides compelling evidence of this impact. The study found that clinicians who completed the ECG modules showed significantly greater accuracy in identifying cardiac abnormalities in athletes, a critical skill in preventing sudden cardiac death. The study’s relevance continues to grow; six years on, it continues to be cited across biomedical science, education, and psychology with 20% of citations occurring in 2024 alone, demonstrating its ongoing influence. “The sustained citation and influence of this study reflect both the journal’s reach and the vital role of education in improving patient outcomes.” Kazem Rahimi , editor in chief of Heart and professor of cardiovascular medicine and population health at the University of Oxford
15% improvement in ECG interpretation skills following completion of BMJ Learning modules, demonstrating significant enhancement of applied clinical knowledge. Participants in infectious disease modules saw their mean test scores rise from 48% to 82% , reflecting a substantial 34% point gain in knowledge and problem solving ability. A long‑term follow‑up study showed retention of applied knowledge with scores maintained at 81% eight months later (pretest: 63%, immediate post test: 82%), underscoring sustained learning impact. 88% of learners reported improved implementation of NICE guidelines in practice after completing BMJ Learning modules.
Positive NICE recommendations for cystic fibrosis drugs The BMJ Technology Assessment Group (BMJ-TAG) conducts independent health research, utilising the expertise of its team of clinical evidence analysts and health economists. The group are experts in systematic literature reviews, statistics, and health economic modelling. Their work informs NHS policy, revolutionises patient treatment, and critically evaluates drug safety and effectiveness for NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance.
Achieving patient access and long term value Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life limiting genetic condition affecting over 9,000 people in England. Characterised by a progressive decline in lung function and frequent, severe respiratory infections, CF historically has had a significant impact on life expectancy, with an average age of death of just 36 years. Recently, a new generation of treatments has emerged that target the underlying cause of CF. Still, they were only available in clinical trials, and none were routinely available on the NHS. BMJ-TAG examined the costs and benefits of three such treatments (Kaftrio ® , Symkevi ® and Orkambi ® ). Their research concluded that they potentially offer life changing patient benefits, but at an exceptionally high price for the NHS. After discussions between NICE, NHS, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals (manufacturer of the drugs), informed by further research by BMJ-TAG , all three drugs were recommended for use. 30, 31 The primary goal of healthcare is to improve patient outcomes. If a treatment offers significant, transformative benefits, even at a high cost, it can be deemed worthwhile. CF drugs drastically improve life expectancy and quality of life, which substantially benefits patients.
While initially expensive, these drugs may lead to sustained savings by preventing hospital admissions and reducing complications. BMJ-TAG’s analysis would consider these lasting effects. David Ramsden, chief executive of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, described the decision as a significant achievement for people with CF, ensuring continued access to treatment for thousands in the UK. 32 “This is a fantastic moment for many people with cystic fibrosis and their families – ending uncertainty and helping to ensure that everyone who can benefit can access these vital medicines – now and in the future.” David Ramsden , chief executive of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust The BMJ-TAG team’s research informs negotiations between the NHS, NICE, and pharmaceutical companies, often leading to reduced drug prices and improved patient access. This evidence based work ensures that treatments which extend and improve quality of life are accessible and costeffective for the NHS, ultimately benefitting many patients. • Supporting informed decisions based on evidence • Improving patient lives with effective treatments • Ensuring value for money through careful analysis
Advocating for safer pharmaceutical marketing How patient voices can drive meaningful change Nearly 90% of teens and young adults turn to social media for health information, but until now, there’s been little oversight of how prescription drugs are promoted online. That changed with the recent passing of the Protecting Patients from Deceptive Drug Ads Online Act . This landmark bipartisan law marks a significant step forward for public health and patient safety in the digital age.
Driven by the patient-led organisation Generation Patient, led by its founder and BMJ patient advisor, Sneha Dave , the legislation compels the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to modernise and enforce its rules on how prescription medications are marketed on social media. It targets misleading or incomplete promotional content from influencers, telehealth providers and healthcare professionals. This legislation was particularly noteworthy because it was heavily influenced by patient advocacy, especially from a young patient group. It’s not often that patients lead the charge for legislation like this. Dave’s group has been discussing this issue for over three years, keeping it continually relevant in public discourse, and now they can finally see bipartisan support for their efforts. Generation Patient identified the problem through its Health Policy Lab: prescription drugs are being promoted by micro influencers with no
safety information or context. In one striking example, an influencer casually recommended a migraine drug with the comment, “You won’t regret it.” Another post promoting a prescription medication reached over 200 million views without once mentioning side effects, contraindications, or risks. The law now gives the FDA clear authority and a mandate to take action. It also enables the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to work together to regulate drug advertising on social media platforms. A new public database will also bring much needed transparency, ensuring patients can easily access accurate,
complete information about prescription medications. The legislation has drawn strong backing from across the political spectrum, as well as from medical societies and patient advocacy groups. It sets a precedent for how the US can regulate other health related content online, including non-prescription drugs and medical devices. As the conversation around ethical social media marketing evolves, Generation Patient’s groundwork offers hope for a more transparent and responsible approach to pharmaceutical advertising.
“This is more than just regulatory reform. It’s recognition that patients, especially young ones, can lead meaningful policy change.” Sneha Dave , founder & executive director, Generation Patient
BMJ Careers Supporting better recruitment decisions in healthcare For more than 180 years, BMJ Group has been at the forefront of providing research, knowledge, and education to health professionals worldwide, envisioning a healthier world for all. Right from the publication of our first print edition in October 1840, recruitment advertising has been a key part of our offering to doctors. Today, BMJ Careers is one of the world’s leading platforms for medical jobs and career advice. In 2024, more than half of UK NHS trusts and health boards advertised on bmj.com/careers , which now carries 55% of consultant vacancies in England and Wales. 33 “We recently appointed a fantastic candidate through BMJ Careers to a hard- to-fill post. Without them, we’d have faced much higher costs via agency or bank routes.” Robert Calvert , medical recruitment manager, Homerton Hospital, London In recent years, BMJ Careers has evolved from a transactional job board into a high performing subscription model that delivers a measurable impact for recruiters. Customers who took a subscription in 2024 received on average 316% more applications than before subscribing (vs 205% increase seen by our first 100 subscribers) at a 72% reduction in cost per advert (vs 58% for the first 100). 34 This demonstrates how our development of best practice in candidate acquisition over time delivers a more effective recruitment solution that offers better value for NHS budgets.
Reach and results (May 2024-May 2025) 36
100,000+ applications delivered to medical jobs
940,000+ medical job views
In 2024, BMJ Careers delivered nearly 110,000 applications to medical jobs at 640 employers in 26 countries. 35
90,000+ applications to UK based roles
730,000+ online views of UK based medical jobs
Better decisions driving healthcare improvement International Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare The International Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare has brought together more than 4,200 delegates each year for nearly 30 years. Held three times annually across Europe and Asia, it convenes healthcare leaders, frontline clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to share learning and improve care.
“I’ve found [BMJ Group] events to be key opportunities for building long lasting professional relationships and staying aligned with best practices in clinical care and
Practical insights in the Utrecht 2025 highlights video showcase the Forum’s impact. 37
View the highlights video
leadership in medicine.” Professor George Samoutis , chairman of the coordination committee of the National Centre for Clinical Evidence, Cyprus
Inspiration to implement change The Forum actively inspires actionable improvements at an institutional level. “It gives us lots of homework, things to think about, and take home messages. It inspires us—me—to take it home to our hospital and to get better patient care” (0:46–1:03). Bridging knowledge levels Carefully balanced content meets the needs of newcomers and advanced practitioners in quality improvement. It offers diverse sessions, from foundational workshops to in-depth technical presentations. “It’s got an outstanding balance of things for, I guess, more advanced people who have a lot more knowledge in the area, and for people who are still getting into quality improvement” (1:26–1:32).
Enhancing collaborative networks Peer learning and informal networking create vital opportunities for knowledge exchange across disciplines and countries. “It is a great place to make those connections, especially if you’re thinking more globally” (1:43–1:48). Continuous learning culture With nearly 30 years of history, the Forum has established an enduring culture of continuous learning. “No matter how many years of experience you’ve had in quality improvement, you would always learn. You know, peer-to-peer learning will always happen” (1:59–2:08).
This feedback reinforces previous evidence. Over 60% of respondents to a BMJ Group survey, conducted six months after the London 2024 Forum, reported positive changes in their organisations as a result of attending.
Better systems Making progress through partnerships
Elevating medical education in Georgia >190K topic views in Q4 2025 — up 172% BMJ Best Practice recorded more than 190,000 topic views in Q4 2025, a 172% increase on the previous quarter. Funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Georgia, its widespread use among students and professionals shows transformative national uptake in medical education.
Driving global consensus on Alzheimer’s imaging Six disciplines. Five regions. One shared vision BMJ China convened a global roundtable on Alzheimer’s Disease imaging, bringing together clinicians, researchers, regulators, industry, policy makers and patient advocates from China, the UK, the US, the EU and Asia Pacific. The dialogue identified shared priorities and differences, creating a platform for ongoing exchange of expertise
Informing global preparedness policy Top 5% of all research outputs ever tracked by Altmetric The BMJ’s collection on “ research priorities for future shocks ” ranks in the top 5% of all research outputs tracked by Altmetric. It has informed global pandemic preparedness, shaped WHO frameworks, and supported resilience and trust in health systems worldwide.
Tackling bias in health tech innovation 6.26x citation rate above field average Research in BMJ Innovations on racial bias in oximetry achieved a 6.3 times citation rate above the field average. It generated evidence informed collaboration, secured funding, and drew the attention of the US FDA, accelerating progress towards equitable diagnostics.
Driving global consensus on Alzheimer’s disease imaging BMJ China and West China Hospital’s Alzheimer’s disease imaging roundtable, December 2024 Each year we run more than 20 expert led roundtables, hundreds of webinars, and international panel discussions and forums. These clinically focused events connect our journal communities with evidence based insight from healthcare leaders and decision makers, serving as catalysts for change. The Alzheimer’s disease imaging roundtable, hosted in Chengdu in partnership with the Department of Radiology at West China Hospital of Sichuan University and the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry (JNNP) , is just one example of how we deliver this value in action. The roundtable explored how brain scans can help safely introduce new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. These treatments offer fresh hope for millions of people, but they can also cause side effects in the brain, known as amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). These changes can only be seen on MRI scans and may be dangerous if missed. That’s why high quality imaging is so important. It catches these changes early and ensures patients get the safest, most effective care. The hybrid event convened leading neurologists, radiologists, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) physicists, and public health experts from China, the USA, the UK, Switzerland and Asia Pacific. It also convened principal contributors to the white paper on imaging recommendations for monitoring of ARIA, “Alzheimer’s Disease Anti- Amyloid Immunotherapies: Imaging Recommendations and Practice Considerations for Monitoring of Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities”. 38 Policymakers and Radiological Society of North America affiliated guideline developers also contributed, ensuring the dialogue translated into real world, implementable practice change.
Convening experts to strengthen health systems The impact of the roundtable demonstrates how BMJ Group goes beyond publishing the best available evidence. We create, structure, and connect the right voices to amplify their relevance . Clinical relevance: experts called for MRI protocol optimisation to improve detection of ARIA, enabling safer DMT monitoring Global-local integration: discussions bridged international Radiological Society of North America recommendations with local practice in China Knowledge into action: the group drafted regionally adapted consensus recommendations for publication in JNNP , extending global best practices to underserved populations
Pathway to impact: The roundtable directly advanced a key goal: expanding ethical, safe access to Alzheimer’s disease therapies in Asia
“The consensus we’ve reached on harmonising ARIA imaging protocols could reshape how Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed and monitored, not just in China, but worldwide.” Professor Na Hu , chief radiologist, Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
Innovative device tackles racial bias in health monitoring, ensuring accurate readings for all skin tones In 2022, original research published in BMJ Innovations introduced a pioneering non-invasive device that corrects racial bias in haemoglobin and pulse oximetry measurements. The paper, “Innovative technology to eliminate the racial bias in noninvasive, point-of-care (POC) haemoglobin and pulse oximetry measurements” , revealed the first ever technology that integrates green light and skin melanin quantification into noninvasive oximetry and haemoglobin measurement. Designed for use at home, in clinics, and critical care settings, it offers a scalable, accessible solution that could reduce health disparities in oxygen monitoring, addressing longstanding inaccuracies in existing devices. Beyond improving diagnostic accuracy, this technology could potentially drive significant change in health equity, particularly in settings with limited resources and underserved communities. This research is not only advancing science, it is shaping a more equitable future in health technology.
Research with real world impact
Health equity: Offers a transformative solution for underserved and resource poor settings, helping reduce racial disparities in diagnostic accuracy Global recognition: Accepted for presentation at the UNICEF/SAARC International Conference in Sri Lanka Academic endorsement: Attracted direct interest from Cornell University, NYC Funding success: Publication supported successful bid for prestigious NIH Phase 2 clinical study grant Global collaboration: Catalysed partnerships with leading researchers and institutions, accelerating technology development Research visibility: Cited 10 times in two years; six times higher than the field average Career progression: Led to mentorship opportunities and a research faculty position for Dr Gokhale Award recognition: Winner of the Anaemia Innovation Challenge for its breakthrough in non- invasive haemoglobin measurement
“The publication in BMJ Innovations has sparked an unprecedented level of attention and conversation. Key stakeholders like the US Food and Drug Administration, policymakers, and device developers are now taking serious note of this unmet need.” Dr Sanjay Gokhale , medical scientist and chief executive officer of Shani Biotechnologies, Texas, USA
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