THEME # The Title Goes Here Here is two lines for your subtitle if you have one on your file Lead Co-lead Name Surname Team Member INNOVATION STAGE Name of the stage Health Innovation Focus What is it What is it Population and Setting What is it Technology and Intervention What is it What is it BENEFITS For Users For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. Project Theme Information Current State OVERVIEW What Is The Innovation OVERVIEW NeoApp is an innovative digital health solution, grounded in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, created to guide parents through the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants. It is the first ERAS-focused platform designed for neonatal populations and their parents at home, providing personalized support and education tailored to each baby’s surgical background, development stage, and ongoing health needs. INTENDED USERS How It Works OVERVIEW Other Known Use Cases OVERVIEW Project Theme Information Current State Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... How it Works Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Get Involved Add a Title Add a Title Connect via email: Email: Discover More: here Previous Item Next Item

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Addictions Treatment Support App Designing Digital Technologies to Facilitate Self-Tracking and Support Substance Use Recovery Lead: David Hodgins Principal Investigator: Geoffrey Messier Project Coordinator: Teale Masrani INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Mental Health & Addiction Population and Setting Vulnerable Adults Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization BENEFITS For Users Enhanced Self-Awareness: By tracking daily metrics, users can become more attuned to their physical and mental states. Accountability and Motivation: Visual progress tracking helps users see their achievements, fostering accountability and motivation. Structured Routine: Regular reminders for check-ins encourage consistent habits, helping users establish stability in their daily lives. Peer Support: The community feature enables connection with others, reducing isolation and providing encouragement. For The System Improved Recovery Outcomes: Structured tracking tools can support more sustainable recovery outcomes by reinforcing positive behaviors. Data-Driven Insights: The app offers valuable insights into recovery patterns, helping inform the design of future digital health tools for substance use recovery. Enhanced Treatment Support: The app serves as a supplementary resource for healthcare providers, adding structure and support outside of clinical settings. Project Theme Information Current State People in substance use recovery often benefit from tracking their journey to help maintain sobriety and stay on a positive trajectory. However, it can be challenging to keep track of cravings, mental health, triggers, and progress in one organized place. There is currently limited research on how well digital platforms can support individuals in recovery, and insights are needed to inform the design of tools that help people meet their recovery goals. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation The Zamplo app is a digital platform that functions as a personal recovery journal, enabling users to track their health, recovery milestones, and personal well-being. It allows users to log goals, cravings, physical symptoms, mental health markers, and other recovery-related data. The app provides features for goal-setting, visual progress tracking, and a community space to connect with others in recovery. How it Works Zamplo users can set real-time recovery goals, perform regular “goal check-ins,” and track cravings, triggers, and coping strategies. The app includes features to monitor physical and mental health symptoms, log activities (e.g., exercise), track appointments (e.g., AA meetings), and visualize their progress through graphs. Confidentiality is maintained for all data, and a community feature connects users with others who share similar experiences. Other Known Cases: Zamplo is already used by others outside of the substance-use area. These individuals use Zamplo to stay organized and track their progression during physical or mental health crises. The purpose of Zamplo in these instances is to allow patients to collect and store all personal health data such as medication side effects, symptom progression, and other related metrics. This data can then be shared, if the user chooses, with their doctors and caretakers. This leads to one centralized location for all information relevant to a patients' health journey. Importantly, this data is controlled by the patient themselves, rather than the healthcare practitioners. Get Involved Help Identify Users Assist us in finding potential participants for our RCT—your support can make a difference in our recruitment efforts Get in touch teale.masrani2@ucalgary.ca . View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Stay informed with the latest in healthcare innovation at Health Everywhere Hub. Explore our news and events page for updates on groundbreaking developments, industry insights, and upcoming events. ABOUT US News Connecting you to the health innovation ecosystem, explore project stories and learn how the Health Everywhere Hub is making an impact in digital health. ABOUT US News Connecting you to the health innovation ecosystem, explore project stories and learn how the Health Everywhere Hub is making an impact in digital health. HIGHLIGHTED ARTICLE Research May 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 8 min read | 8 min read Health Everywhere: Advancing digital health in Alberta Over the past year, W21C has focused on addressing how care is delivered by creating the Health Everywhere Hub, an initiative aimed at advancing innovation digital health in Alberta. Read More ALL ARTICLES Community Innovation Research Research May 1, 2025 | 8 min read Health Everywhere: Advancing digital health in Alberta Over the past year, W21C has focused on addressing how care is delivered by creating the Health Everywhere Hub, an initiative aimed at advancing innovation digital health in Alberta. Read More Community Mar 6, 2024 | 4 min read Health Everywhere launch event On Janurary 23, 2024, over 100 guests joined us as we held the Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship on Digital Health Today and Tomorrow. Read More Research Sep 11, 2023 | 4 min read UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta. Read More Innovation Sep 6, 2023 | 3 min read 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants UCalgary’s innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund (MIF). Read More See More FEATURED NEWS Read More On Sept. 5, Nate Glubish, minister of technology and innovation, announced that three UCalgary projects have received four years of funding to lead province-wide strategic initiatives to accelerate research and commercialization in the areas of medical devices, electronic and mobile health, and space and defence... 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants Where innovation meets healthcare HEALTH EVERYWHERE Contact Us Land Acknowledgement The University of Calgary, located in the heart of Southern Alberta, both acknowledges and pays tribute to the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, which include the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprised of the Siksika, the Piikani, and the Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6).

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Enhancing the Management of Pressure Injuries Through Technology-Enhanced Communities of Practice Exploring technology and policy solutions to common problem areas in pressure injury prevention, diagnosis and management Lead: Chester Ho Co-Lead: Martin Ferguson-Pell Team Member: Javad Soleimani INNOVATION STAGE Exploration Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Adults Technology and Intervention — BENEFITS For Users Rural Clinicians: Gain access to wound care specialists and tools that improve diagnosis and management of chronic wounds. Wound Care Specialists: Provide support more efficiently, feel less isolated, and contribute to systemic improvements in care. Interdisciplinary Clinicians: Play a role in identifying root causes and prevention strategies, enhancing collaborative care. Patients: Experience better clinical outcomes, faster recovery, and reduced risk of recurrence. For The System Improved Care Quality: Address key gaps in pressure injury management, enhancing quality indicators. Increased Efficiency: Reduce bed occupancy and resource demands for wound care. Better Collaboration: Foster interdisciplinary teamwork through integrated virtual technologies. Cost Savings: Lower costs associated with prolonged hospital stays and pressure injury complications. Project Theme Information Current State Hospital-acquired pressure injuries affect one in six patients in Alberta’s acute care sites, causing significant pain, complications, and even death. These injuries are critical indicators of healthcare quality, with high rates often reflecting systemic issues in care delivery. Accurate staging and assessment are essential for selecting effective treatment plans, but these processes are especially challenging in rural and remote areas due to limited access to wound care specialists. Given the wide scope of this clinical problem, the project focuses on identifying the highest-priority gaps that can be addressed using virtual care technologies. Pressure injuries, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are common in healthcare settings, particularly among patients with limited mobility, such as those with spinal injuries. These injuries can cause severe pain and lead to life-threatening complications if untreated. Because pressure injuries are generally preventable, their prevalence is often viewed as an indicator of the quality of care. An audit of acute care sites in Alberta revealed that approximately one in every six patients had a pressure injury. However, assessing and staging these injuries is challenging, as it relies heavily on subjective human evaluation, typically by nurses without specialized wound care training. Many Registered Nurses (RNs) are uncomfortable with the responsibility, fearing inaccuracy in staging due to a lack of specialized expertise. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation The project applies a design thinking approach to improve pressure injury (PI) management by using virtual care technologies. A key innovation is demonstrating technology that enables wound care specialists to provide effective virtual support to rural clinicians. The approach integrates tools for tracking wound staging and progression while incorporating input from interdisciplinary clinicians to identify the root causes of pressure injuries and measures to prevent recurrence. A virtual community of practice fosters collaboration among rural and urban clinicians, wound care specialists, and technology providers to co-develop and test solutions that address care gaps and enhance outcomes. By addressing high-priority gaps and leveraging virtual care technologies, the Pressure Wound Design Thinking project aims to create a scalable, collaborative model that improves pressure injury management in rural and remote areas, ultimately enhancing care quality and clinical outcomes. How it Works Design Thinking Methodology: Collaborate with stakeholders to identify high-priority challenges, co-develop practical solutions, and test implementations in both simulated and real-world environments. Integration of Interdisciplinary Contributions: Incorporate insights from interdisciplinary clinicians to address root causes of pressure injuries and identify prevention measures. Community of Practice: Create a virtual network for rural and urban clinicians to share expertise, focusing on PI staging, care improvement, and long-term prevention strategies. Barrier Identification: Address obstacles to implementing virtual wound care, including access to technology and training in rural communities. Get Involved Contact to Collaborate Contact to Martin Ferguson-Pell to collaborate Get in touch fe4@ualberta.ca . View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Back Research May 1, 2025 | 8 min read  Health Everywhere Team Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Health Everywhere: Advancing digital health in Alberta At a glance Health Everywhere is a new Alberta-based hub launched by W21C to accelerate digital health innovation with focus on virtual care, health data access, community acute care integration, and ecosystem growth. Funded by the Major Innovation Fund, it connects researchers, healthcare providers, and tech partners across the province. The Hub drives real-world healthcare impact, and over the past year has focused on multi-institution collaboration and over 3 outreach events.  Health Everywhere Team Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph Digital technologies have revolutionized industries like tourism and transportation, and healthcare is undergoing a similar transformation. Digital health innovation is reshaping how care is delivered. In Alberta, there are several pockets of excellence in digital health, featuring highly innovative but largely disconnected programs, research, and advancements. Over the past year, W21C has focused on addressing this issue by creating the Health Everywhere Hub, an initiative aimed at advancing innovation in digital health in Alberta. This hub serves as a central point for connecting innovators, healthcare partners, researchers, and investors. Funded by the Government of Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund, the Health Everywhere Hub has been pivotal in driving forward these efforts. Health Everywhere officially launched on January 23, 2024, as part of this year’s Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship. Subtitled ‘Digital Health Today and Tomorrow’, and hosted by W21C, this annual lectureship acted as Health Everywhere’s inaugural showcase. Over 100 guests attended while various speakers shared their thoughts on digital health including five of Health Everywhere’s lead researchers. This highly successful event acted as a great start in showcasing Health Everywhere to the local digital health community. Community engagement Community engagement is an essential component for Health Everywhere as it ensures that the solutions developed are aligned with the real needs of patients and healthcare providers. By involving the community, the hub fosters trust, collaboration, and the co-creation of technologies that can have a meaningful impact on healthcare access and delivery. Throughout the year the Health Everywhere team continued to be actively engaged in external outreach to continue to raise awareness of the Hub and the digital health initiatives being conducted across the province. Overall, the team participated in 30 events, ranging from academic and industry conferences to charity golf tournaments in rural communities, educational summits, and patient advisory committees. Current projects snapshot Health Everywhere is committed to driving provincial initiatives that enhance research excellence and foster innovative capacity. The Hub has facilitated provincial collaboration, with projects underway involving multiple institutions, including the University of Calgary, University of Alberta, Mount Royal University, SAIT, MacEwan University, Athabasca University, Lethbridge College, and Red Deer Polytechnic. Theme 1: Bridging community and acute care Led by Led by Dr. Matthew James, MD, PhD, from the University of Calgary and Dr. Neesh Pannu, MD, from the University of Alberta, this theme works to unite researchers, decision-makers, and digital health innovators to ensure seamless, inclusive, and scalable healthcare implementation in acute and community-based care settings. An example theme one project is led by James and involves the development of a streamlined survey and reporting tool designed to improve communication between cardiovascular patients and physicians. It collects and summarizes relevant health factors, promoting personalized, patient-centered care that considers a fuller picture of the patient’s well-being. Theme 2: Remote monitoring and virtual care While digital technology has advanced rapidly, uptake into healthcare remains limited. Led by Dr. Mary Brindle, MD, from the University of Calgary and Dr. Martin Ferguson-Pell, MD, from the University of Alberta, this theme builds a foundation for testing and scaling virtual and mobile health innovations for virtual care delivery. One project within the theme is led by Ferguson-Pell and has spearheaded the development and implementation of virtual assessment protocols for pelvic floor exercise programs and upper extremity stroke spasticity assessments. These advancements can lead to better management and treatment of conditions that significantly impact the quality of life for many Albertans. Theme 3: Connectivity and data access Health data can save lives—but only when it’s accessible. Led by Dr. Tyler Williamson, PhD, from the University of Calgary, this theme seeks to establish secure and seamless data access and interoperability for improved healthcare. A significant achievement thus far has been the “Interoperability Saves Lives” report, released in October 2023. Co-authored by theme lead Williamson and theme members Dr. Ewan Affleck, MD, and Robbi Price, this report has already been sparking national conversations on the value of health data interoperability and was even referenced recently when Bill C-72 (Connected Care for Canadians Act) was introduced into Parliament. Theme 4: Integrated innovation ecosystem Led by Dr. Chad Saunders, PhD, from the University of Calgary, this theme supports the growth of a vibrant digital health ecosystem by connecting innovators with the people, infrastructure, and resources they need. As an example of this work, Saunders has been focused on bridging the gap between healthcare innovation and the broader ecosystem. His efforts are focused on understanding the barriers that prevent progress in the sector and finding ways to bring together key players to create a more integrated healthcare system. Future plans The hub team is focused on using a human-centered design approach to ensure projects taking place in the hub are actively engaging with the community they will impact, and that the overall hub itself is meeting the needs of those engaged. The aim is to foster trust within Alberta’s digital health community, as well as among the patients, providers, and systems that these digital innovations will affect. The Hub has made significant strides in fostering a cohesive digital health ecosystem in Alberta and is ready to adapt to new opportunities, reinforcing Alberta’s position as an ideal location for developing, implementing, and scaling digital health technologies. EXPLORE MORE ARTICLES Research May 1, 2025 | 8 min read Health Everywhere: Advancing digital health in Alberta Over the past year, W21C has focused on addressing how care is delivered by creating the Health Everywhere Hub, an initiative aimed at advancing innovation digital health in Alberta. Read More Community Mar 6, 2024 | 4 min read Health Everywhere launch event On Janurary 23, 2024, over 100 guests joined us as we held the Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship on Digital Health Today and Tomorrow. Read More Research Sep 11, 2023 | 4 min read UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta. Read More Innovation Sep 6, 2023 | 3 min read 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants UCalgary’s innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund (MIF). Read More Back to News

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Therapeutic effects of Electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS) on gait and balance — Lead: Jocelyn Rempel (Co-Investigator and Adivsor) Chief Science Officer: Ryan Peters CEO & Co-Founder: John Ralston INNOVATION STAGE Implementation Integration Health Innovation Focus Mobility and Rehabilitation Population and Setting Older adults Technology and Intervention Wearable Technology, Imaging & Biosensors BENEFITS For Users Improved Balance and Stability: Reduces the risk of falls by supporting vestibular health and enhancing balance retention. Sustainable Therapy Option: Offers a convenient, non-invasive treatment with long-lasting results, empowering seniors to take an active role in their balance care. Increased Independence: Helps seniors regain control over their mobility, reducing reliance on family and healthcare services. For The System Reduced Healthcare Burden: Supports long-term balance improvement in seniors, potentially lowering fall-related injuries and the need for post-fall care. Cost-Effective Solution: Provides a sustainable and scalable alternative to in-person therapy, addressing workforce shortages. Enhanced Therapy Options: Expands the range of available fall prevention tools for healthcare professionals and caregivers, improving overall senior care. Project Theme Information Current State People over 40 experience a higher risk of falls due to reduced balance retention, and falls in seniors often lead to significant loss of independence, long-term health challenges, and increased dependence on family, friends, or healthcare services. Additionally, limited healthcare resources and workforce shortages create challenges in providing adequate post-surgical and long-term care options for seniors recovering from falls. Currently, sustainable therapies for balance restoration in seniors are limited. Current technology available to measure balance and gait can't be used to prevent falls or delivers sustainable results. Research shows sustained results for at least 6 months following 18 twenty-minute treatment sessions (3 sessions per week). The technology has shown to be effective in older populations from 50-98 years of age and in individuals with multiple sclerosis from 38-62 years of age. Additional potential applications include Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and people with cognitive decline. Pilot testing has demonstrated increased ambulatory confidence, mobility, and independence, and lower fall risk following the 6-week treatment. The Neursantys team is currently pursuing Health Canada and FDA approvals for this revolutionary device. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation The team at Neursantys has developed an innovative wearable device to maintain and restore vestibular balance function and motor control. Originally developed to address accelerated balance aging in astronauts during prolonged exposure to microgravity, Neursantys has now adapted their innovative wearable device to assist in balance maintenance and restoration and falls prevention in older adults. The Neursantys device uses a unique form of low-level non-invasive electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS) to activate long-lasting neuroplastic restoration of balance and gait. The easy-to-use "U-shaped" wearable form factor allows the device to rest comfortably around the neck and shoulders while treatment is being administered How it Works The team at Neursantys has developed an innovative wearable device to maintain and restore vestibular balance function and motor control. Originally developed to address accelerated balance aging in astronauts during prolonged exposure to microgravity, Neursantys has now adapted their innovative wearable device to assist in balance maintenance and restoration and falls prevention in older adults. The Neursantys device uses a unique form of low-level non-invasive electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS) to activate long-lasting neuroplastic restoration of balance and gait. The easy-to-use "U-shaped" wearable form factor allows the device to rest comfortably around the neck and shoulders while treatment is being administered Other Known Cases: NASA astronauts; Additional potential applications include Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and people with cognitive decline. Get Involved To Learn More Visit our product page to learn more Get in touch jlrempel@mtroyal.ca Take a Closer Look Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care CONnecting and Coordinating an Enhanced Network for TRansitions in Care (CONCENTRIC) Reimagining Transitions in Care for Rural Spinal Cord Injury Patients Lead Chester Ho Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care CONnecting and Coordinating an Enhanced Network for TRansitions in Care (CONCENTRIC) Reimagining Transitions in Care for Rural Spinal Cord Injury Patients Lead Chester Ho Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE Rural patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) face significant challenges during their transition from inpatient rehabilitation back into their communities. Limited access to in-person peer networking opportunities in rural areas restricts essential social support and resources. As a result, SCI patients often experience higher rates of psychological disorders, such as depression, which further complicates their reintegration process. While virtual peer networks have shown potential, their implementation remains underdeveloped, and the effectiveness of these systems is hindered by inadequate community resources such as ongoing care and tailored programs. THE CHALLENGE Rural patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) face significant challenges during their transition from inpatient rehabilitation back into their communities. Limited access to in-person peer networking opportunities in rural areas restricts essential social support and resources. As a result, SCI patients often experience higher rates of psychological disorders, such as depression, which further complicates their reintegration process. While virtual peer networks have shown potential, their implementation remains underdeveloped, and the effectiveness of these systems is hindered by inadequate community resources such as ongoing care and tailored programs. THE CHALLENGE Rural patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) face significant challenges during their transition from inpatient rehabilitation back into their communities. Limited access to in-person peer networking opportunities in rural areas restricts essential social support and resources. As a result, SCI patients often experience higher rates of psychological disorders, such as depression, which further complicates their reintegration process. While virtual peer networks have shown potential, their implementation remains underdeveloped, and the effectiveness of these systems is hindered by inadequate community resources such as ongoing care and tailored programs. THE INNOVATION The CONCENTRIC intiative introduces a virtual peer network for rural SCI patients, using cutting-edge spatial meeting technologies to enhance peer connections and community reintegration. This intervention leverages mixed-reality headsets, 360-degree cameras, and a combination of Zoom and immersive meeting applications to create engaging, supportive environments. By addressing gaps in traditional care transitions, this model utilizes technology to foster meaningful connections and improve patient outcomes. THE INNOVATION The CONCENTRIC intiative introduces a virtual peer network for rural SCI patients, using cutting-edge spatial meeting technologies to enhance peer connections and community reintegration. This intervention leverages mixed-reality headsets, 360-degree cameras, and a combination of Zoom and immersive meeting applications to create engaging, supportive environments. By addressing gaps in traditional care transitions, this model utilizes technology to foster meaningful connections and improve patient outcomes. HOW IT WORKS Participants in the virtual peer network meet twice monthly, alternating between standard videoconferencing and spatial-technology sessions. Coordinators and peers facilitate the spatial sessions using mixed-reality headsets and 360-degree cameras. A mixed-methods evaluation will compare these tools with traditional videoconferencing to assess outcomes and support reintegration, ultimately strengthening patient connections. HOW IT WORKS Participants in the virtual peer network meet twice monthly, alternating between standard videoconferencing and spatial-technology sessions. Coordinators and peers facilitate the spatial sessions using mixed-reality headsets and 360-degree cameras. A mixed-methods evaluation will compare these tools with traditional videoconferencing to assess outcomes and support reintegration, ultimately strengthening patient connections. THE BENEFITS For Users Enhanced Support: Users receive guidance from Client Service Coordinators and experienced peers, improving their transition into community living. Reduced Isolation: Immersive technologies enable rural patients to form meaningful peer connections, alleviating feelings of loneliness. Improved Access to Resources: Virtual networks provide patients with access to necessary information and support, regardless of their location. Better Emotional Well-Being: Stronger peer connections and support systems contribute to reduced rates of psychological disorders such as depression. For The System Improved Patient Outcomes: The initiative supports better reintegration for SCI patients, reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Innovative Technology Integration: By leveraging spatial meeting technologies, the organization pioneers new approaches to virtual care and peer support. Scalable Solutions: This model can inform future practices and policies for supporting rural patients in similar contexts. Knowledge Advancement: The mixed-methods study contributes to research on using immersive technologies to improve patient care and transitions. THE BENEFITS For Users Enhanced Support: Users receive guidance from Client Service Coordinators and experienced peers, improving their transition into community living. Reduced Isolation: Immersive technologies enable rural patients to form meaningful peer connections, alleviating feelings of loneliness. Improved Access to Resources: Virtual networks provide patients with access to necessary information and support, regardless of their location. Better Emotional Well-Being: Stronger peer connections and support systems contribute to reduced rates of psychological disorders such as depression. For The System Improved Patient Outcomes: The initiative supports better reintegration for SCI patients, reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Innovative Technology Integration: By leveraging spatial meeting technologies, the organization pioneers new approaches to virtual care and peer support. Scalable Solutions: This model can inform future practices and policies for supporting rural patients in similar contexts. Knowledge Advancement: The mixed-methods study contributes to research on using immersive technologies to improve patient care and transitions. Explore Further If you’d like to learn more or connect about CONCENTRIC , reach out to Chester Ho, Project Lead , at: chester.ho@albertahealthservices.ca Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.

Chad Saunders is the Integrated Innovation Ecosystem Support Lead at Health Everywhere. Chad Saunders is an Associate Professor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary. Chad holds adjunct appointments with the Department of Community Health Sciences and the Department of Medicine at the Cumming School of Medicine. Chad Saunders is an Associate Professor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary. Chad holds adjunct appointments with the Department of Community Health Sciences and the Department of Medicine at the Cumming School of Medicine. Chad received both a BSc (Applied Mathematics) and MBA from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a PhD (Management Information Systems) from the Haskayne School of Business. Chad also holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. His research interests focus on the support that entrepreneurs draw upon in starting and scaling their ventures, and addressing the barriers that innovation ecosystems pose by not necessarily providing equal or equitable support to all individuals, especially intersectional entrepreneurs (e.g., women, Indigenous, immigrants). His work is published in leading journals, including Journal of Medical Internet Research, BMC Health Services Research, Entrepreneurship Theory & Practice, Journal of Business Venturing, International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering, Journal of Business Venturing Insights, and Research Policy. Integrated Innovation Ecosystem Support Lead Chad Saunders  wsaunder@ucalgary.ca NEXT THEME LEAD

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants NEWS Date Pamela Hyde, Office of the Vice-President (Research) | Sept 6, 2023 Project Contact: Image Source: iStock UCalgary’s innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund (MIF). On Sept. 5, Nate Glubish, minister of technology and innovation, announced that three UCalgary projects have received four years of funding to lead province-wide strategic initiatives to accelerate research and commercialization in the areas of medical devices, electronic and mobile health, and space and defence technologies. “Provincial support for high-tech research and innovation will help our post-secondary scholars move from groundbreaking technological ideas to entrepreneurial realities, fuelling a more diverse economy and making a positive impact in the wider community ,” says Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Calgary. Major Innovation Fund projects are highly collaborative, requiring the engagement of scholars from institutions across Alberta, industry partners, and the communities that the projects intend to serve. It is an outcomes-focused program, funding projects that will attract and retain top talent, diversify Alberta’s economy, support industries and local businesses, and leverage additional investments. “UCalgary’s innovation ecosystem is growing thanks to the drive of our research community and investments like the Major Innovation Fund ,” says Dr. William Ghali, vice-president (research). “These three projects will streamline the research-to-commercialization pipeline for their sector and create opportunities for both innovative research and widespread of adoption of novel, made-in-Alberta solutions .” UCalgary’s projects are the Alberta Medical Device Innovation Consortium, Health Everywhere, and Space and Defence Technologies Alberta. Health Everywhere Lead investigator: Dr. Mary Brindle , MD, professor, Cumming School of Medicine Alberta has pockets of excellence in eHealth (digital health technologies) and mHealth (mobile health technologies), which include novel programs and innovations. However, much of this excellence is disconnected and has tremendous untapped potential for collaboration and commercialization, and widespread adoption. The vision of Health Everywhere is a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem in Alberta that builds on a foundation of strength in innovation to drive economic and technological growth. “The rapid evolution of technology, the increasing complexity of medicine and the limitations of our current systems of patient care underscore the need for a human-centered approach to digital health ,” says Brindle. “Health Everywhere will use digital-health technologies to allow patients to receive the best possible medical treatment whether it is in the hospital or in their own homes, and strengthen connections between care in the hospital and care in communities .” Co-developed with community, industry, and academic stakeholders, Health Everywhere will be a provincial hub of digital health excellence that brings together integrated programs, leading experts, and resources to enable efficient and effective commercialization, spread, and scale of eHealth and mHealth technologies. “The Health Everywhere program will create an ecosystem that puts exciting and impactful innovations in technology, computer science, and data analytics into the hands of teams who can use them to benefit the patients of today and tomorrow ,” says Brindle. Health Everywhere is a UCalgary-led project, in partnership with the University of Alberta, Athabasca University, Lethbridge College, MacEwan University, Mount Royal University, NAIT, Red Deer Polytechnic and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).

Theme 1: Bridging Community and Acute Care UPTAKE Using Personalized risk and digital tools for Transitions in care after Acute Kidney Events Lead: Matthew James Co-Lead: Neesh Pannu Project Coordinator: Nusrat Shonmu INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Chronic Disease Population and Setting Adults Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization BENEFITS For Users Patients gain greater awareness and understanding of their AKI diagnosis, along with clear, actionable steps for post-discharge care. The personalized guidelines enhance their confidence in managing follow-up appointments, medications, and lifestyle adjustments, reducing the risk of serious complications and improving overall quality of life. For The System For the healthcare system, this intervention helps reduce hospital readmissions by empowering patients to manage their condition effectively at home. By minimizing complications associated with unmanaged AKI, the intervention lowers healthcare costs, optimizes resource use, and supports patient-centered care. This model of personalized discharge planning could be adapted for other conditions, demonstrating scalable, preventative, and innovative healthcare practices. Project Theme Information Current State Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a serious condition that can cause long-term complications, including cardiovascular issues and recurrent hospitalizations. AKI often develops rapidly, and if not managed properly, it can lead to lasting health problems. A critical gap exists in care continuity from hospital to home, as many patients with AKI are unaware of their condition or lack guidance on follow-up care, which increases the risk of severe health outcomes. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation This is a patient-specific educational and guidance platform designed to support AKI management after hospital discharge. It provides a tailored after-visit summary that includes AKI-related information, customized follow-up instructions, and preventive guidelines, enabling patients to manage their health proactively. By delivering personalized, condition-specific discharge documentation, the platform aims to improve continuity of care and patient awareness. How it Works At the point of discharge, the clinical team creates and delivers a personalized AKI-focused summary to the patient. This document includes essential information on AKI, customized recommendations for medication management, blood work follow-up, and lifestyle changes. The summary educates patients about their specific health risks and outlines actionable steps to manage AKI and reduce complications. Get Involved To Learn More Visit the website to learn more . Take a Closer Look Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item