MHRA urges side-effect reports during MedSafetyWeek and opens AI safety essay contest
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is asking patients, carers and health workers to report suspected side effects of medicines and medical devices through its Yellow Card scheme during MedSafetyWeek, running 2 to 8 November 2026. At the same time it has opened its 2026 essay competition on spotting and reporting problems caused by AI in healthcare, now open to pharmacy students as well as medical students. Entries close on 11 January 2027, with a top prize of £500.
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What does it mean?
If you think a medicine, vaccine or medical device has caused a problem, you can report it to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme, and this week is a good time to do it. Students studying medicine or pharmacy can also enter a essay contest about AI in healthcare, with entries due by 11 January 2027.
Who is affected?
Patients, parents, carers, healthcare professionals, and medical and pharmacy students in the UK.