Dr. Tom Stelfox is the Oversight Committee Chair at Health Everywhere. Tom is the inaugural Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta. He received his MD from the University of Alberta, completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Toronto, earned a Ph.D. in health care policy at Harvard University and did a critical care fellowship at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Tom Stelfox is the inaugural Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta. He received his MD from the University of Alberta, completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Toronto, earned a Ph.D. in health care policy at Harvard University and did a critical care fellowship at the Massachusetts General Hospital. He served as joint clinical and academic chair of the Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services where he reorganized the delivery of physician patient care services. He is the past Scientific Director of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary where he established the Centre for Health Policy. His research focuses on the application of health-services research methods to improve the quality of health-care delivery to critically ill patients . Oversight Committee Chair Dr. Tom Stelfox  stelfoxt@ualberta.ca PREVIOUS THEME LEAD SEE OPERATIONS TEAM

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Emergency Department Wearables and Remote Monitoring This intervention leverages wearable technology and a digital health platform to enable remote biometric monitoring. By utilizing existing, widely owned smart devices, the platform facilitates continuous tracking of health metrics, enabling timely interventions without relying on expensive, dedicated medical systems. Lead: Jake Hayward . . INNOVATION STAGE Proof of Concept Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness; Chronic Disease Population and Setting Adults; Emergency department; Care Transitions Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization; Wearable Technology, Imaging & Biosensors BENEFITS For Users For patients: the platform promotes proactive health management, increasing health awareness and engagement. It reduces the need for frequent hospital visits, saving time and money and lowering exposure to hospital-acquired infections. For those in remote areas, it provides accessible care without requiring travel, and timely alerts ensure that critical health changes are addressed promptly. For The System The system benefits from resource optimization by reducing the need for costly, specialized monitoring equipment, reserving these for critical cases. Quick access to biometric data supports efficient healthcare delivery, while improved monitoring in remote and underserved areas helps address health equity. Additionally, this scalable and sustainable solution supports future healthcare improvements, positioning healthcare organizations as leaders in innovation, attracting funding, and advancing research capabilities. Project Theme Information Current State Traditional medical monitoring systems are costly and complex, often requiring physician prescriptions and dedicated in-home equipment, which poses financial and usability challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. These systems are difficult to scale, particularly in underserved or rural areas. However, biometric monitoring is increasingly possible using common consumer devices, like smartwatches (e.g., Fitbit, Apple Watch), which can track vital signs and enable patients to manage their health proactively. While remote monitoring offers significant potential, it must be implemented responsibly to ensure safety and accuracy. 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 intervention leverages wearable technology and a digital health platform to enable remote biometric monitoring. By utilizing existing, widely owned smart devices, the platform facilitates continuous tracking of health metrics, enabling timely interventions without relying on expensive, dedicated medical systems. How it Works The platform uses smart devices to continuously collect vital health data, which patients can monitor in real-time. This data is securely transmitted to healthcare providers, enabling them to make timely, informed decisions and detect early warning signs of deterioration. In the event of a critical health change, automated alerts are generated for healthcare teams to take immediate action if necessary. Other Known Cases: Chronic Disease Management: Wearables like the Apple Watch and Fitbit are being used to monitor heart rates, oxygen levels, and blood pressure in real time, helping patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Data is shared with healthcare providers for early interventions. Post-Surgery Recovery: Wearables track patients’ vitals remotely after surgery, allowing doctors to monitor recovery and respond quickly to complications. Elderly Care: Wearables are used to monitor fall risks, sleep patterns, and mobility in elderly patients, ensuring timely alerts in case of emergencies. COVID-19 Monitoring: Smartwatches have been used to monitor oxygen saturation levels and detect early signs of respiratory distress, allowing patients to seek timely treatment. Get Involved Explore Partnerships Email Jake Hayward to explore partnership opportunities Get in touch jhayward@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

Dr. Chad Saunders, an Assistant Professor at the Haskayne School of Business since 2007, brings a wealth of expertise to the academic landscape with adjunct appointments in the Department of Community Health Sciences and the Department of Medicine at the Cumming School of Medicine. Serving as the eHealth Services and Strategy Lead at the healthcare innovation incubator, the Ward of the 21st Century (w21c.org), Dr. Saunders received his BSc in Applied Mathematics and MBA in Information Systems from Memorial University of Newfoundland, followed by a PhD in Management Information Systems from the Haskayne School of Business. With a diverse teaching background spanning entrepreneurship, innovation management, information systems, project management, and strategy, he is currently involved in teaching courses like Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Principles of Entrepreneurship, along with serving as a Project Coach in the Executive MBA program. Dr. Saunders' research prowess is evident in his three streams of focus: the impact of technology use in professional practices, the design and innovation of technology-enabled knowledge management in organizations, and the role of academic-industry collaborations in supporting entrepreneurs. His contributions, published in leading journals and funded by prestigious institutions, highlight his significant role in advancing knowledge at the intersection of business and technology. Integrated Innovation Ecosystem Support Lead Chad Saunders  fe4@ualberta.ca NEXT THEME LEAD

Shane Virani is the Hub Manager at Health Everywhere. Shane holds a master’s degree in Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and is a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional. He has extensive experience in leading interdisciplinary teams, strategic planning, and working with various stakeholder groups. Shane holds a master’s degree in Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and is a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional. He has extensive experience in leading interdisciplinary teams, strategic planning, and working with various stakeholder groups . Prior to joining the W21C, Shane developed and managed a variety of projects relating to pediatric health outcomes, health technology, and neuroscience with the Alberta Children’s Hospital Neuropsychology Service. He has also previously worked as a Research Coordinator with the University of Calgary Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre and as a Research Associate with the Simon Fraser University Injury Prevention and Mobility Lab. Prior to his role as Program Manager, Shane coordinated the W21C Digital Health Colloboratorium initiative. Outside of work, Shane enjoys participating in a variety of sports including hockey, basketball, and skiing. Hub Manager Shane Virani  shane.virani@ucalgary.ca PREVIOUS OPERATIONS MEMBER

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers NEWS Date Alex Baron, W21C Research and Innovation Centre | Sept 11, 2023 Project Contact: Image Source: iStock SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta in transforming ideas into clinical practice For the first time, researchers in digital health from Alberta post-secondary institutions will all share access to expert support in translating research innovation into improved care for citizens through an expansion of the newly renamed SPARK Alberta program. The boost is thanks to a new grant from Alberta Innovates . Launched in 2020 as SPARK Calgary, the program has been providing expert advice, education and ecosystem connections for evidence-based digital health innovations in Calgary for the last three years. Based out of the University of Calgary’s W21C Research and Innovation Centre , the program recruited its fourth cohort in spring 2023 and has worked with more than 70 faculty and researchers supporting 14 projects. The SPARK model originated from Stanford University in 2006 with the aim of advancing research discoveries from academia to the health-care system. Now a global network of more than 60 academic institutions across six continents, SPARK Alberta represents the only active SPARK site in Canada. Earlier this year, SPARK Alberta was awarded a grant by Alberta Innovates’ Ecosystem Development Partnerships Program . With this grant, SPARK will leverage its previous success in Calgary and expand the program provincially, further establishing Alberta’s reputation as a province with strong digital health innovation. “This grant will allow us to offer our resources and expertise to faculty and researchers developing innovations from post-secondary institutions from across the province,” says Dr. Scott Kraft, MD, director of SPARK Alberta and clinical associate professor in the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM). “Our aim is to form a central network, linking and co-ordinating digital health innovation across Alberta’s post-secondary institutions.” BCI4Kids and Possibility Neurotechnologies team members, from left: Erica Floreani, Eli Kinney-Lang and Dion Kelly, present the Think2Switch. Dion Kelly is a clinical neuroscientist in the BCI4Kids Research Program. Credit: Dion Kelly SPARK graduates have impact The Calgary Pediatric Brain-Computer Interface Program (BCI4Kids) plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges currently faced by thousands of Canadian children with neurological disabilities. These disabilities often hinder their ability to fully engage in daily life and exercise their fundamental rights to interact with the world. Operating out of the Alberta Children’s Hospital and affiliated with the CSM, the BCI4Kids program is led by Dr. Adam Kirton, MSc’96, MD, a CSM professor and technology solutions research lead for One Child Every Child , a UCalgary research initiative with a vision for all children to be healthy, empowered and thriving. BCI4Kids focuses on cutting-edge brain-computer interface (BCI) technology to provide children suffering from severe neurological disabilities with an avenue to achieve greater independence and an improved quality of life. From the BCI4Kids program came a commercial venture called Possibility Neurotechnologies . Incorporated in October 2022, Possibility Neurotechnologies is dedicated to integrating BCI technology into everyday life, enabling those with severe physical disabilities to interact and communicate in transformative ways. In March 2023, the research team successfully graduated from the SPARK program. Its flagship product, Think2Switch, allows individuals to control household electronic devices using only their thoughts. By creating user-friendly and accessible technology, the team aims to enhance independence and quality of life, making previously unimaginable interactions possible for those in need. “Participating in the SPARK program has been an invaluable experience for Possibility Neurotechnologies, ” says Dr. Dion Kelly, MBT’18, PhD’23, co-founder and CEO of Possibility Neurotechnologies and clinical neuroscientist at BCI4Kids. “The monthly check-ins served as crucial touchpoints, compelling us to regularly evaluate our progress and address setbacks head-on .” Since joining the SPARK program, Possibility Neurotechnologies has achieved significant growth, including being accepted into the Remarkable Accelerator Program, receiving an equity investment from the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, and showcasing its Think2Switch technology at international events. With a growing mailing list and a lineup of prospective customers, the team is preparing for a limited market release in Q1 2024. The SPARK Alberta program is managed by Nicola Quiggin and directed by Scott Kraft. Scott Kraft is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences and director of SPARK Alberta. Credit: Nicola Quiggin Next steps for SPARK Alberta One of the goals of the SPARK Alberta program is to create a community focused on supporting Alberta-made digital health innovations. By joining SPARK, participating teams are making meaningful connections with others in this community. “The in-person presentations and events fostered a dynamic network with other startups in the digital health ecosystem ,” says Dion. “Engaging with peers at various stages of development has enriched our journey, providing insights and camaraderie as we navigate the multifaceted process of growth and innovation. ” Applications for the next cohort are open until Sept. 13. If you are a faculty member or researcher developing an evidence-based digital health innovation, visit the SPARK Alberta webpage to learn more about the program and to apply.

Bridging Community and Acute Care UPTAKE Personalizing Recovery After Acute Kidney Events Lead Matthew James Co-Lead Neesh Pannu Additional Contributors Nusrat Shonmu, Tyrone Harrison, Moaliosa Donald Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Bridging Community and Acute Care UPTAKE Personalizing Recovery After Acute Kidney Events Lead Matthew James Co-Lead Neesh Pannu Additional Contributors Nusrat Shonmu, Tyrone Harrison, Moaliosa Donald Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE 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 without proper management, it can lead to lasting health problems. A major gap exists in the continuity of care as patients transition from hospital to home. Many patients with AKI are unaware of their condition or lack the clear, tailored guidance needed to understand their diagnosis and navigate safe recovery, increasing their risk of severe health outcomes. THE CHALLENGE 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 without proper management, it can lead to lasting health problems. A major gap exists in the continuity of care as patients transition from hospital to home. Many patients with AKI are unaware of their condition or lack the clear, tailored guidance needed to understand their diagnosis and navigate safe recovery, increasing their risk of severe health outcomes. THE CHALLENGE 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 without proper management, it can lead to lasting health problems. A major gap exists in the continuity of care as patients transition from hospital to home. Many patients with AKI are unaware of their condition or lack the clear, tailored guidance needed to understand their diagnosis and navigate safe recovery, increasing their risk of severe health outcomes. THE INNOVATION UPTAKE 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 guidance to help patients manage their condition proactively. By delivering personalized, condition-specific discharge documentation that is relevant and easy to understand, UPTAKE strengthens patient awareness, supports safer recovery at home, and improves continuity of care during a period of elevated health risk. THE INNOVATION UPTAKE 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 guidance to help patients manage their condition proactively. By delivering personalized, condition-specific discharge documentation that is relevant and easy to understand, UPTAKE strengthens patient awareness, supports safer recovery at home, and improves continuity of care during a period of elevated health risk. HOW IT WORKS At the point of discharge, the clinical team creates and delivers a personalized AKI-focused summary to the patient. This document provides essential information about their kidney event, along with customized recommendations for medication management, follow-up blood work, and lifestyle changes. The summary offers clear, actionable steps to help patients understand their health risks, engage in appropriate follow-up, and manage AKI safely at home. HOW IT WORKS At the point of discharge, the clinical team creates and delivers a personalized AKI-focused summary to the patient. This document provides essential information about their kidney event, along with customized recommendations for medication management, follow-up blood work, and lifestyle changes. The summary offers clear, actionable steps to help patients understand their health risks, engage in appropriate follow-up, and manage AKI safely at home. THE BENEFITS For Users Greater Awareness: Patients receive clear information about their AKI diagnosis and the significance of their condition. Personalized Guidance: Tailored instructions support medication management, follow-up blood work, and lifestyle changes after discharge. Improved Confidence: A customized summary helps patients understand what to expect and how to navigate their recovery. Safer Home Management: Clear steps and condition-specific guidance reduce the risk of serious complications following hospitalization. For The System Reduced Readmissions: Personalized education and clear follow-up instructions help decrease AKI-related return visits and hospitalizations. Efficient Resource Use: Better-managed recovery supports appropriate use of clinical resources and reduces strain on hospital teams. Lower Long-Term Costs: Preventing severe outcomes and complications can lessen the ongoing healthcare costs associated with unmanaged AKI. Adaptable Model: This personalized discharge approach can be extended to other conditions, supporting scalable, patient-centered care. THE BENEFITS For Users Greater Awareness: Patients receive clear information about their AKI diagnosis and the significance of their condition. Personalized Guidance: Tailored instructions support medication management, follow-up blood work, and lifestyle changes after discharge. Improved Confidence: A customized summary helps patients understand what to expect and how to navigate their recovery. Safer Home Management: Clear steps and condition-specific guidance reduce the risk of serious complications following hospitalization. For The System Reduced Readmissions: Personalized education and clear follow-up instructions help decrease AKI-related return visits and hospitalizations. Efficient Resource Use: Better-managed recovery supports appropriate use of clinical resources and reduces strain on hospital teams. Lower Long-Term Costs: Preventing severe outcomes and complications can lessen the ongoing healthcare costs associated with unmanaged AKI. Adaptable Model: This personalized discharge approach can be extended to other conditions, supporting scalable, patient-centered care. Explore Further If you’d like to learn more or connect about UPTAKE or connect with the project team, visit: UPTAKE UCalgary Page 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.

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers NEWS Date Alex Baron, W21C Research and Innovation Centre | Sept 11, 2023 Project Contact: Image Source: iStock SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta in transforming ideas into clinical practice For the first time, researchers in digital health from Alberta post-secondary institutions will all share access to expert support in translating research innovation into improved care for citizens through an expansion of the newly renamed SPARK Alberta program. The boost is thanks to a new grant from Alberta Innovates . Launched in 2020 as SPARK Calgary, the program has been providing expert advice, education and ecosystem connections for evidence-based digital health innovations in Calgary for the last three years. Based out of the University of Calgary’s W21C Research and Innovation Centre , the program recruited its fourth cohort in spring 2023 and has worked with more than 70 faculty and researchers supporting 14 projects. The SPARK model originated from Stanford University in 2006 with the aim of advancing research discoveries from academia to the health-care system. Now a global network of more than 60 academic institutions across six continents, SPARK Alberta represents the only active SPARK site in Canada. Earlier this year, SPARK Alberta was awarded a grant by Alberta Innovates’ Ecosystem Development Partnerships Program . With this grant, SPARK will leverage its previous success in Calgary and expand the program provincially, further establishing Alberta’s reputation as a province with strong digital health innovation. “This grant will allow us to offer our resources and expertise to faculty and researchers developing innovations from post-secondary institutions from across the province,” says Dr. Scott Kraft, MD, director of SPARK Alberta and clinical associate professor in the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM). “Our aim is to form a central network, linking and co-ordinating digital health innovation across Alberta’s post-secondary institutions.” BCI4Kids and Possibility Neurotechnologies team members, from left: Erica Floreani, Eli Kinney-Lang and Dion Kelly, present the Think2Switch. Dion Kelly is a clinical neuroscientist in the BCI4Kids Research Program. Credit: Dion Kelly SPARK graduates have impact The Calgary Pediatric Brain-Computer Interface Program (BCI4Kids) plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges currently faced by thousands of Canadian children with neurological disabilities. These disabilities often hinder their ability to fully engage in daily life and exercise their fundamental rights to interact with the world. Operating out of the Alberta Children’s Hospital and affiliated with the CSM, the BCI4Kids program is led by Dr. Adam Kirton, MSc’96, MD, a CSM professor and technology solutions research lead for One Child Every Child , a UCalgary research initiative with a vision for all children to be healthy, empowered and thriving. BCI4Kids focuses on cutting-edge brain-computer interface (BCI) technology to provide children suffering from severe neurological disabilities with an avenue to achieve greater independence and an improved quality of life. From the BCI4Kids program came a commercial venture called Possibility Neurotechnologies . Incorporated in October 2022, Possibility Neurotechnologies is dedicated to integrating BCI technology into everyday life, enabling those with severe physical disabilities to interact and communicate in transformative ways. In March 2023, the research team successfully graduated from the SPARK program. Its flagship product, Think2Switch, allows individuals to control household electronic devices using only their thoughts. By creating user-friendly and accessible technology, the team aims to enhance independence and quality of life, making previously unimaginable interactions possible for those in need. “Participating in the SPARK program has been an invaluable experience for Possibility Neurotechnologies, ” says Dr. Dion Kelly, MBT’18, PhD’23, co-founder and CEO of Possibility Neurotechnologies and clinical neuroscientist at BCI4Kids. “The monthly check-ins served as crucial touchpoints, compelling us to regularly evaluate our progress and address setbacks head-on .” Since joining the SPARK program, Possibility Neurotechnologies has achieved significant growth, including being accepted into the Remarkable Accelerator Program, receiving an equity investment from the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, and showcasing its Think2Switch technology at international events. With a growing mailing list and a lineup of prospective customers, the team is preparing for a limited market release in Q1 2024. The SPARK Alberta program is managed by Nicola Quiggin and directed by Scott Kraft. Scott Kraft is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences and director of SPARK Alberta. Credit: Nicola Quiggin Next steps for SPARK Alberta One of the goals of the SPARK Alberta program is to create a community focused on supporting Alberta-made digital health innovations. By joining SPARK, participating teams are making meaningful connections with others in this community. “The in-person presentations and events fostered a dynamic network with other startups in the digital health ecosystem ,” says Dion. “Engaging with peers at various stages of development has enriched our journey, providing insights and camaraderie as we navigate the multifaceted process of growth and innovation. ” Applications for the next cohort are open until Sept. 13. If you are a faculty member or researcher developing an evidence-based digital health innovation, visit the SPARK Alberta webpage to learn more about the program and to apply.

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. Enhancing Recovery After Surgery THEME 2: REMOTE MONITORING AND VIRTUAL CARE Date Alex Baron | January 2024 As we age it can take longer for our bodies to heal from trauma. As many as 40% of patients that undergo surgery will have major complications that lead to long-term health problems, such as heart disease or stroke. This is especially true for adults over the age of 65 following a major surgery, with many experiencing difficulties in returning to their pre-operation levels of function. Led by Dr. Duminda Wijeysundera, MD, at the University of Toronto, the Functional Improvement Trajectories After Surgery (FIT After Surgery) study aims to gain a better understanding of how often and why some patients experience significant disability after surgery. As one of 14 study sites across Canada, W21C is currently working with the Calgary site lead, Dr. Melinda Davis, MD, director of Master Teaching Program, clinical associate professor, Cumming School of Medicine, on recruitment efforts at the Foothills Medical Centre, actively engaging with patients prior to their surgery. Patient recruitment for the Calgary site began in July 2021 and is ongoing. Researchers are excited about the possibilities this work could reveal, especially as Canada’s population continues to age and the likelihood of more seniors needing major surgery every year is increasing. Having a better understanding of when and why patients experience disability after surgery will enable patients to make better-informed decisions about having surgery and allow physicians to identify patients that may need additional support following surgery. Overall recruitment and follow up for the study is expected to finish in 2023, with preliminary results anticipated in early 2024. By capitalizing on W21C's capabilities in eHealth and mHealth technologies, fostering collaboration, and actively engaging communities, the Health Everywhere Hub is poised to play a pivotal role in improving seniors' recovery experiences post-major surgeries. Project Contact: Dr. Mary Brindle Image Sources: Adobe Stock

Theme 3: Connectivity and Data Access Building the basic infrastructure to allow data to flow securely Date We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. | The event was then led in a keynote address by Dr. James A. Makokis, speaking on the negative role colonialism continues to play in healthcare for Indigenous Canadians. This was followed by a lecture from Dr. Christy Cauley on the integration of mobile health to optimize recovery in patients. Project Contact-

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Start the Breathe The Remote Drone-Delivered Project to Deliver Immediate Care At-the-Scene for Respiratory Distress Lead: Wade Hawkins Co-Lead: Andy Kirkpatrick . INNOVATION STAGE Proof of Concept and Implementation/Integration Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Adult, Rural & Remote Technology and Intervention Robotics, actuators, and human interfaces; Digital Communication BENEFITS For Users Immediate Access to Life-Saving Medical Care: Patients receive essential medical supplies quickly, providing crucial aid before responders arrive. Life-Saving Interventions: Timely delivery of medical kits and telemedicine support helps prevent fatalities in remote or high-risk locations. Enhanced Survival Rates: Prompt intervention and monitoring significantly improve survival chances and recovery outcomes. Students of Public Health Safety: Practical insights and learning opportunities from a cutting-edge, real-world application of technology in emergency care. Enhanced Safety: Families gain peace of mind knowing that advanced technology is available to assist loved ones in emergencies. Community Health Improvement: Increased access to timely medical care can improve overall community health and reduce fatality rates. Empowerment and Independence: Communities become more resilient and self-reliant, with better tools to manage emergencies. For The System Research Opportunities: Creates data for advancing research in remote healthcare, leading to new innovations and practical applications. Revenue Generation: Potential for revenue through licensing of drone technology and associated medical equipment. Collaboration and Funding: Attracts partnerships and investment from stakeholders interested in pioneering healthcare delivery. Optimized Emergency Response: Enhances response efficiency, reducing strain on conventional emergency services. Scalable Solutions: Develops scalable models for healthcare delivery, adaptable to various underserved regions. Enhanced Healthcare Infrastructure: Strengthens healthcare systems through advanced technological integration. Cost Savings: Reduces healthcare costs by preventing severe complications and lowering the need for extensive emergency interventions. Project Theme Information Current State People in remote or hard-to-reach areas, such as those hiking on treacherous paths, living in isolated communities, or trapped in emergency situations like fires, often struggle to receive immediate medical care. Limited access to medical intervention in these critical moments can be fatal. Additionally, a lack of telemedicine and remote monitoring capabilities in these locations increases stress and risks for individuals and places extra pressure on emergency responders, who may be delayed in reaching patients. 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 intervention consists of a fleet of drones designed to deliver medical kits to inaccessible or remote locations where emergency responders face delays. These drones are equipped to carry essential medical supplies directly to patients, integrating seamlessly with emergency response and tele-mentoring protocols to provide life-saving support when seconds count. How it Works Drones capable of carrying scalable payloads are dispatched to deliver medical kits directly to patients in remote locations. These drones are integrated into existing emergency response systems, providing immediate access to medical care and telemedicine support. Additionally, remote monitoring tools enable tracking of vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, oxygen levels) to help responders make informed decisions and administer prompt interventions. This approach buys critical time, enhancing survival outcomes while reducing the burden on emergency responders. Other Known Cases: Medical Supply Delivery: Drones are used to deliver emergency medical supplies, vaccines, and blood to remote or disaster-struck areas. For example, Zipline has successfully delivered blood products to hospitals in rural Rwanda and Ghana. Search and Rescue Operations: Drones assist in locating missing or injured persons in hard-to-reach areas, using thermal imaging to find people in forests, mountains, or during natural disasters. Telemedicine: Drones equipped with communication devices deliver medical kits and allow doctors to guide patients remotely. This concept has been tested in disaster zones where medical personnel cannot reach quickly. Organ Transportation: Drones have been tested to transport organs for transplant between hospitals, reducing transportation time significantly and improving patient outcomes. Get Involved Join Drone Trials Join our winter and spring drone delivery trials or participate in research design—email to sign up! Get in touch wade.hawkins@sait.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