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Health Everywhere supports new eHealth and mHealth industries in Alberta, provide training and support to develop the next generation of digital health researchers and clinicians. Contact us today for more information. Learn more about The Future of the OR: A Living Lab & Innovation Event! SEPT 15, 2026 | Foothills Medical Centre Take me there Alberta's Digital Health Hub Uniting programs, experts, and resources to accelerate the commercialization and scale of eHealth and mHealth technologies ALBERTA'S DIGITAL HEALTH HUB Alberta's Untapped Potential Innovation in digital health holds immense potential to transform healthcare delivery, yet systemic barriers are slowing progress. The Health Everywhere Hub (HEH) was established, with funding from the Major Innovation Fund (MIF), to understand and address these challenges by fostering a more connected, collaborative, and sustainable innovation ecosystem in Alberta. The Hub aims to empower innovators to design, test, and scale their solutions, ensuring Alberta-made innovations are adopted locally and internationally. The Hub envisions a vibrant and interconnected digital health ecosystem that leverages Alberta's strengths to drive economic and technological growth. The Health Everywhere Hub is supported by the Government of Alberta's Ministry of Technology and Innovation through the Major Innovation Fund Program. Engage With Us LEARN MORE Health Systems and Non-Profits Leaders or key stakeholders within not-for-profit, health service, and innovation support organizations. LEARN MORE Industry Partners Industry leaders or key partners ranging from early-stage start-ups to large multi-national corporations. LEARN MORE Researchers and Educators Academic researchers, faculty members, or students associated with an academic institution. SEE MORE Reimagining Healthcare Through Digital Innovation Hear from Dr. Mary Brindle , Health Everywhere Hub Project Lead, as she introduces a bold vision for transforming Alberta's healthcare landscape. Dr. Brindle explains how the Hub is breaking down barriers that have slowed digital health innovation, creating a collaborative ecosystem where Alberta-made solutions can be designed, tested, and adopted both locally and globally. Upcoming Events The Future of the OR: A Health Everywhere Hub Living Lab & Innovation Event Join us at the HEH Living Lab Innovation Event on September 15th, 2026. Hosted by the Health Everywhere Hub, this event will explore how Living Labs can accelerate the testing, evaluation, and adoption of innovative technologies in real-world surgical environments. Through keynote presentations, expert panels, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities, participants will help define the direction of surgical care in Alberta. In person space is limited. Please register using the link below. September 15, 2026 9 AM - 4 PM Azriel (HRIC) Atrium - Foothills Medical Centre Learn More Health Everywhere Projects RESEARCH THEME Bridging Community & Acute Care MyHeartandCKD What if Chronic Kidney Disease Patients had a Decision Tool that Made Risks and Benefits Clear? Read More IMPROVE CV Care What if Heart Care Went Beyond Symptoms to Include Stress, Support, and Daily Life? Read More Integrated Care Pathway (ICP) Evaluation Redesigning Pathways for More Centralized, Holistic Care. Read More See All RESEARCH THEME 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 Read More Point of Care Ultrasound (Acumen - POCUS) Making Ultrasound More Accessible in the Community Read More Robin's Nest as a White Label Platform An All-in-One Platform for Remote Care and Trials Read More See All RESEARCH THEME Connectivity and Data Access Healthcare Data Sharing and Management: Implementation of Distributive Machine Learning Technology and Blockchain Technology What If Your Health Data Worked For You? Read More Community-Based Health Data Research Initiative Coming Soon Read More Disconnected Care: The impact of the Alberta Health Information Act on the health and well being of Albertans Coming Soon Read More See All RESEARCH THEME Integrated Innovation Ecosystem Support A Model of Tradeoffs for Understanding Health Information Technology Implementation Coming Soon Read More Evaluation of GAITS Platform in SPARK Program Coming Soon Read More Identifying the mHealth and eHealth Ecosystem Building Blocks Coming Soon Read More See All Next Theme Next Theme Bridging Community and Acute Care Bringing together researchers, decision-makers, and digital health innovators to ensure seamless, inclusive, and scalable healthcare implementation in acute and community-based care settings. Like Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care There are significant challenges due to the lack of health data integration, which results in interoperability issues between patients and care providers. This theme aims to establish secure and seamless data access, ensuring better interoperability for improved healthcare outcomes. Like Connectivity and Data Access There are significant challenges due to the lack of health data integration, which results in interoperability issues between patients and care providers. This theme aims to establish secure and seamless data access, ensuring better interoperability for improved healthcare outcomes. Like Integrative Innovation Ecosystem Support By addressing gaps and opportunities in the current ecosystem, our aim is to create a dynamic eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, by identifying resources, matching them with innovators, and improving overall integration. Like News and Events Health Everywhere Launch Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship – Digital Health Today and Tomorrow NEWS On January 23, 2024, over 100 guests joined us as we held the Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship on Digital Health Today and Tomorrow. January 23, 2024 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants NEWS UCalgary's innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta's Major Innovation Fund. September 6, 2023 UCalgary-based program expands province-wide NEWS SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta. September 11, 2023 News Innovation Apr 30, 2026 | 2 min read Simulation, Systems, and the Future of Surgical Care Tara Klassen joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation Podcast to discuss why innovation in surgical care is about much more than introducing a new device or technology. Read More Innovation Apr 16, 2026 | 2 min read From Research to Real World: Dr. Mary Brindle on Surgical Innovation Health Everywhere Hub Project Lead, Mary Brindle, joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation podcast to discuss the concept of the Living Lab in healthcare. Read More 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 Our Partners Academic Partners See All HEALTH EVERYWHERE HUB Bringing Alberta Together A hub for innovators, industry partners, innovation support partners, healthcare providers and community. Contact Us

The Future of the OR Living Lab & Innovation Event Join us for a day of keynotes, community-led panels, and live demonstrations exploring how the operating room can become a driver of surgical innovation. This is the inaugural event in a province-wide series building Alberta's Living Lab ecosystem. Tuesday September 15, 2026 Azrieli Atrium, University of Calgary Foothills Campus, Calgary, Alberta 7:45AM - 4:00PM View Agenda View Map PREMIER SPONSOR BD Canada We're proud to partner with BD as Premier Sponsor of The Future of the OR BD is one of the world's largest medical technology companies, developing tools and technologies across medical essentials, connected care, biopharma systems, and interventional care that help clinicians work more safely and efficiently. Their support helps power this inaugural event and Alberta's growing Living Lab ecosystem. ABOUT THE EVENT What are we trying to do? A Living Lab only works when the right people are in the room together. Clinicians, researchers, industry innovators, health system leaders, government, and the built environment sector, each bringing something the others don't. This event is the foundational gathering to connect industry and capital planning partners with health system priorities, defines the commercial and healthcare value of a Living Lab in the OR, and identifies concrete opportunities for collaboration and investment, the first step in building Alberta's Living Lab ecosystem. Our mission is to accelerate the development and adoption of Alberta health innovations that are ready for real-world use, by building the right spaces, the right relationships, and the right evidence , together. SCHEDULE Event Agenda Times & sessions subject to change 7:45-8:30 am CHECK IN 📍Azerili Atrium 8:45-9:00 am OPENING REMARKS 📍Theatre 4 9:00-10:00 am KEYNOTE Living Labs at the Centre of Healthcare Transformation Muhammad Mamdani 📍Theatre 4 10:00-10:45 am EXHIBITION + NETWORKING BREAK 📍Azerili Atrium 10:45-11:45 am PANEL Interoperability & Connected Care: Moving from Innovation to Implementation 📍Theatre 4 11:45am-1:00 pm NETWORKING LUNCH + EXHIBITION 📍Azerili Atrium 1:00-2:00 pm PANEL The OR at the Centre of Surgical Transformation 📍Theatre 4 2:00-2:45 pm EXHIBITION + NETWORKING BREAK 📍Azerili Atrium 2:45-3:45 pm PANEL Building Alberta's Innovation Engine: How Living Labs Deliver Health and Economic Value 📍Theatre 4 3:45-4:00 pm CLOSING REMARKS 📍Theatre 4 View Full Agenda Event Map - Coming Soon SCHEDULE Event Agenda Times & sessions subject to change VENUE Event Map PROGRAMMING Meet our Speakers Keynote Panel 1 Panel 2 Panel 3 KEYNOTE Living Labs At the Centre of Healthcare Transformation Theatre 4 | 9:00-10:00 am PREMIER GUEST SPEAKER Ivy Parks BD Canada KEYNOTE SPEAKER Dr. Muhammad Mamdani University of Toronto PANEL Interoperability & Connected Care: Moving from Innovation to Implementation Theatre 4 | 10:45-11:45 am MODERATOR Nancy Walter Alberta Innovates PANELIST Teri Price Greg’s Wings PANELIST Dr. Tyler Williamson Centre of Health Informatics PANELIST Tory Hibbitt Embury & West LLP PANELIST Nathan Bluvol Philips PANEL The OR at the Centre of Surgical Transformation Theatre 4 | 1:00-2:00 pm MODERATOR Jordan Roumieu Medtronic PANELIST Zach Woodward Hospital & Surgical Health Services, Government of Alberta PANELIST Dr. Paul Fedak University of Alberta PANELIST Dr. Arvind Ramadorai Medtronic PANEL Building Alberta's Innovation Engine: How Living Labs Deliver Health and Economic Value Theatre 4 | 2:45-3:45 pm MODERATOR Jasmine Palardy The Good Future Co. PANELIST Dr. David Goldstein South Health Campus PANELIST Dr. Tara Klassen Acute Care Alberta PANELIST Shan Jegatheeswaran Polyphonic J&J ABOUT THE EVENT What we are Building A Living Lab only works when the right people are in the room together. Clinicians, researchers, industry innovators, health system leaders, government, and the built environment sector, each bringing something the others don't. This event is the foundational gathering to connect industry and capital planning partners with health system priorities, defines the commercial and healthcare value of a Living Lab in the OR, and identifies concrete opportunities for collaboration and investment, the first step in building Alberta's Living Lab ecosystem. Our mission is to accelerate the development and adoption of Alberta health innovations that are ready for real-world use, by building the right spaces, the right relationships, and the right evidence, together. ABOUT THE EVENT What is a Living Lab? What if the operating room could be more than a place where care is delivered? That's the idea behind a Living Lab—by evaluating innovations where they will actually be used, Living Labs help identify what works, what needs improvement, and how promising solutions can be successfully integrated into routine processes. Clinical, community, research, and industry partners co-create alongside patients and caregivers to identify, test, and learn under real conditions, in real time. This generates the real-world evidence needed to establish the intellectual property, commercialization pathways, and system transformation that improve health and economic outcomes. Living Labs support healthcare organizations in becoming learning enterprises, where care delivery, evaluation, and implementation form a practice-embedded culture innovation rather than separated activities. HEALTH EVERYWHERE HUB PARTNER W21C Research & Innovation Centre The Health Everywhere Hub (HEH) builds on W21C’s longstanding work in healthcare research, innovation, and living lab approaches. Established with funding from the Major Innovation Fund (MIF), HEH extends the living lab concept beyond a single clinical environment to foster a more connected, collaborative, and sustainable health innovation ecosystem across Alberta. Together, W21C alongside the ecosystem of Health Everywhere project leads, bring researchers, clinicians, industry, policymakers, and community partners together to test, learn, and advance solutions to complex healthcare challenges. While W21C provides a foundation and proven approach for conducting research and innovation within real-world healthcare environments, Health Everywhere creates opportunities to connect that work across organizations, sectors, and settings—helping move promising ideas from individual projects toward broader system-level impact. OR LIVING LAB CHAMPION TEAM Meet our Team Dr. Tara Klassen Innovation Lead - Acute Care Alberta Acute Care Alberta | AMEDICO | Health Everywhere Hub Megan Hayter Rockyview General Hospital Working Group Chair + Co-Chair Health Everywhere Hub Kat Arnold Human-Centred Design Lead, W21C Hub Engagement and Evaluation Lead, Health Everywhere Hub Dr. Mary Brindle Surgeon, Alberta Children’s Hospital | Scientific Director, W21C Project Lead, Health Everywhere Hub Candice Poon Foothills Medical Centre Working Group Chair + Co-Chair Health Everywhere Hub Maggie Hui Human-Centred Designer, W21C Hub Engagement and Evaluation Designer, Health Everywhere Hub Dr. Paul Fedak Cardiac Surgeon Professor & Translational Scientist, University of Alberta Vivien Chan Alberta Children’s Hospital Working Group Chair + Co-Chair Health Everywhere Hub A Leading Innovator BD is one of the world's largest pure-play medical technology companies with a Purpose of advancing the world of health™ by driving innovation across medical essentials, connected care, biopharma systems and interventional. The company supports those on the frontlines of healthcare by developing new technologies that optimize clinical operations and improve patient care. Operating globally, with more than 60,000 employees, BD delivers billions of products annually with a positive impact on healthcare. By collaborating with customers, BD's innovations improve health outcomes, lower costs, and increase efficiency. As Premier Sponsor of The Future of the OR, BD brings that innovation to Alberta, advancing health and economic outcomes for Albertans. PREMIER SPONSOR BD Canada We're proud to partner with BD as Premier Sponsor of The Future of the OR From AI-powered surgical tools to smarter, more adaptable OR spaces, the innovations shaping the future of surgery are being imagined and built today. Industry partners like BD aren't just providing the tools — they're working alongside us to imagine and build the ecosystem that will bring those innovations to life in Alberta's operating rooms. Support from industry leaders like BD Canada is what makes it possible to launch this inaugural event and help establish Alberta's growing Living Lab ecosystem. ATTENDEES Who Should Attend Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, administrators Health System Leaders System leaders and policy makers Industry + Innovators Medical Technology, device makers, startups, investors Government Ministry of Technology and Innovation Academic Researchers Faculty and surgical residents Built Environment Healthcare construction firms Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, administrators Industry + Innovators Medical Technology, device makers, startups, investors Academic Researchers Faculty and surgical residents Health System Leaders System leaders and policy makers Government Ministry of Technology and Innovation Built Environment Healthcare construction firms Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, administrators Industry + Innovators Medical Technology, device makers, startups, investors Academic Researchers Faculty and surgical residents Health System Leaders System leaders and policy makers Government Ministry of Technology and Innovation Built Environment Healthcare construction firms Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, perioperative staff, and trainees Health System Leaders Executives, operational leaders, and decision-makers from health delivery organizations Academic Researchers Clinical, health services, and engineering researchers advancing surgical innovation Industry + Innovators Medtech companies, device manufacturers, startups, and investors Government Provincial ministries, health authorities, and public agencies shaping health innovation policy Built Environment Architects, designers, engineers, and construction partners shaping surgical spaces PRESENTED BY: 140+ Attendees Expected 5 Keynotes & Panels 2520sf Exhibition Space PROGRAMMING Meet our Speakers Speaker Name One or two lines here Like Speaker Name One or two lines here Like Speaker Name One or two lines here Like 00 days 00 hours 00 min 00 sec Registration is open to all community members. Seats are limited — reserve yours today. Join Waitlist

Latest News Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants Sep 6, 2023 UCalgary’s innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund (MIF) Read More UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers Sep 11, 2023 SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta in transforming ideas into clinical practice Read More Health Everywhere Launch Event Mar 6, 2024 Exploring the Future of Digital Health: The Launch of Health Everywhere Hub Read More

The Future of the OR Living Lab & Innovation Evening Event Join us for an evening to explore how design, infrastructure, and innovation can shape future-ready operating rooms. This invite-only gathering brings together leaders to help shape Alberta’s OR Living Lab and the future of healthcare infrastructure. Tuesday September 15, 2026 EllisDon, 140 Quarry Park Blvd #310, Calgary, Alberta 5:30PM - 8:45PM Invite only View Agenda Designing Future-Ready Operating Rooms How do we design operating rooms that can adapt to rapid advances in robotics, imaging, AI, and other technologies—without requiring constant, disruptive renovation? ABOUT THE EVENT This invite-only evening will bring together approximately 75 leaders from healthcare, government, design, construction, and innovation for a working conversation about what future-ready surgical spaces need to look like—and where today’s built environment falls short. The evening will also include appetizers and opportunities for guests to connect and exchange perspectives across sectors. THE CONVERSATION The anchor of the evening is a transdisciplinary panel, The Role of the Built Environment in Innovation: Building the Space, Infrastructure, Procurement and Capital Planning for the Future OR , moderated by SLD Technology. The discussion will focus on the infrastructure, procurement, planning, and design decisions needed to create ORs that can adapt as technology and models of care evolve. Together, we will explore how the built environment can better support clinical outcomes, operational performance, and long-term health and economic outcomes in Alberta. SHAPING ALBERTA FUTURE ORs The event is part of the broader Health Everywhere Hub Living Lab initiative, supported through the Government of Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund. As the Health Everywhere Hub advances its Living Lab strategy, this gathering is an opportunity for leaders across sectors to help shape the design priorities that will inform Alberta’s future OR planning and infrastructure. EVENING SPONSOR SLD Technology We're proud to partner with SLD Technology as the Evening Sponsor of The Future of the OR SLD Technology is redefining the way operating rooms are built through its patented AirFRAME ceiling system, delivering superior airflow and contamination control while simplifying construction. Since 2015, AirFRAME has saved over 18,000 days of installation time across more than 1,200 installations in 39 states and 4 countries. Their support helps power the evening event and advance the future of safer, cleaner, and more adaptable OR spaces in Alberta. SCHEDULE Evening Event Agenda Times & sessions subject to change 1:45-2:30 pm PANEL Interoperability & Data Integration for Innovation 📍Theatre 4 3:45-4:00 pm CLOSING REMARKS 📍Theatre 4 5:30-6:00pm CHECK IN + NETWORKING 6:00-6:15pm OPENING REMARKS Ivy Parks, BD Canada 6:15-7:15pm NETWORKING + VR TOUR 7:15-8:15pm FUTURE PROOFING OR SPACES Focused panel and networking about the role of construction, design and the built environment to support health and economic outcomes Moderated by Cliff Yahnke (SLD Technology) Panelists: Noor Esmail (Stantec), Olivia Brown EllisDon), Robyn Saccon (BD Canada), 8:15-8:45pm AUDIENCE Q & A Tara Klassen 8:45pm CLOSING REMARKS Tara Klassen View Full Agenda Event Map - Coming Soon PROGRAMMING Meet our Speakers Panel PANEL Future Proofing OR Spaces 7:15-8-15pm MODERATOR Cliff Yahnke SLD Technology PANELIST Robyn Saccon BD Canada PANELIST Noor Esmail Stantec PANELIST Olivia Brown EllisDon ATTENDEES Who Should Attend Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, administrators Industry + Innovators Medical Technology, device makers, startups, investors Academic Researchers Faculty and surgical residents Health System Leaders System leaders and policy makers Government Ministry of Technology and Innovation Built Environment Healthcare construction firms Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, administrators Industry + Innovators Medical Technology, device makers, startups, investors Academic Researchers Faculty and surgical residents Health System Leaders System leaders and policy makers Government Ministry of Technology and Innovation Built Environment Healthcare construction firms Clinical Care Teams Surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, perioperative staff, and trainees Health System Leaders Executives, operational leaders, and decision-makers from health delivery organizations Academic Researchers Clinical, health services, and engineering researchers advancing surgical innovation Industry + Innovators Medtech companies, device manufacturers, startups, and investors Government Provincial ministries, health authorities, and public agencies shaping health innovation policy Built Environment Architects, designers, engineers, and construction partners shaping surgical spaces COMING SOON Meet our Panelists Cliff Yahnke Chief Science Officer, SLD Technology Andrew Hall SVP of Strategic Accounts, SLD Technology Olivia Brown Senior Manager, Innovation & ConTech, EllisDon TBD Coming Soon! PRESENTED BY: 00 days 00 hours 00 min 00 sec Registration is open to all community members. Seats are limited — reserve yours today. Register Now Technology shapes possibilities, but people and relationships determine outcomes.

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 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-

Back Community Mar 6, 2024 | 4 min read  Alex Baron Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Health Everywhere launch event At a glance Health Everywhere, a new $6.3M digital health hub created through Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund, was officially launched at the 2024 Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship hosted by W21C. The event honoured Dr. Watanabe’s legacy in digital health and featured keynote talks on Indigenous health equity and mobile health innovation, followed by presentations from the Hub’s lead researchers. Bringing together over 100 guests, the event marked a key milestone in connecting digital health innovators across academia and industry to shape Alberta’s eHealth and mHealth future.  Alex Baron Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph On January 23, 2024, over 100 guests joined us as we held the Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe Lectureship on Digital Health Today and Tomorrow. Hosted by the W21C Research and Innovation Centre, this event formally introduced and showcased "Health Everywhere", a new eHealth and mHealth hub created from a $6.3M Major Innovation Fund award from the Government of Alberta.
 This lectureship series honours the contributions of Dr. Mamoru ‘Mo’ Watanabe. Joining the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Medicine (now named Cumming School of Medicine) to serve as professor and head of internal medicine in 1974, Dr. Watanabe served as dean of the Faculty of Medicine from July 1982 until June 1992, and is believed to be the first Japanese Canadian dean of a Canadian medical school. He passed away July 5, 2023, at the age of 90.
 Opening remarks were provided by Dr. Mary Brindle, W21C Academic Director, and Dr. William Ghali, Vice-President (Research) at the University of Calgary. Dr. Ghali shared with the audience his memories of working with Dr. Watanabe and his legacy in digital health.
 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.
 After a quick intermission the audience was introduced to Health Everywhere by five of its lead researchers. This included presentations from Dr. Chad Saunders, Dr. Martin Ferguson-Pell, Dr. Mary Brindle, Dr. Matt James, and Dr. Tyler Williamson. These presentations were followed by a Q&A with all the leads participating at once. Overall, the three-hour event proved to be a wonderful opportunity for the Health Everywhere team to introduce this initiative to the public while also making great connections between industry and academic leaders. Featured Video See the full interview EXPLORE MORE ARTICLES Innovation Apr 30, 2026 | 2 min read Simulation, Systems, and the Future of Surgical Care Tara Klassen joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation Podcast to discuss why innovation in surgical care is about much more than introducing a new device or technology. Read More Innovation Apr 16, 2026 | 2 min read From Research to Real World: Dr. Mary Brindle on Surgical Innovation Health Everywhere Hub Project Lead, Mary Brindle, joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation podcast to discuss the concept of the Living Lab in healthcare. Read More 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 Featured Video See the full interview EXPLORE MORE ARTICLES Innovation Apr 30, 2026 | 2 min read Simulation, Systems, and the Future of Surgical Care Tara Klassen joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation Podcast to discuss why innovation in surgical care is about much more than introducing a new device or technology. Read More Innovation Apr 16, 2026 | 2 min read From Research to Real World: Dr. Mary Brindle on Surgical Innovation Health Everywhere Hub Project Lead, Mary Brindle, joins host Lisa George on the Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation podcast to discuss the concept of the Living Lab in healthcare. Read More 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

News 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants Date We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. September 6, 2023 | Pamela Hyde, Office of the Vice-President (Research) 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. Image Source: iStock Project Contact- Pamela Hyde, Office of the Vice-President (Research)

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Neo App Personalized support and education for parents navigating the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants Lead: Mary Brindle . . INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Mobility and Rehabilitation Population and Setting Pediatrics; NICU; Caregiver Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization 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 NeoApp has the potential to decrease avoidable emergency visits and readmissions by providing parents with timely, reliable support at home, which could lessen the load on already overburdened NICUs and emergency departments. Additionally, by reinforcing discharge education remotely, the app can streamline in-hospital discharge processes and save time for healthcare providers. NeoApp could also improve long-term patient satisfaction and outcomes, especially in areas with limited access to specialized care, supporting a more efficient and sustainable healthcare ecosystem. Project Theme Information Current State Families transitioning their babies from the NICU to home face overwhelming challenges due to limited post-discharge support, often feeling ill-equipped to manage their baby’s needs without immediate access to healthcare professionals. There is currently a gap between the intensive care available to neonates after surgery in the hospital and the minimal support available to parent caregivers after discharge, which is very stressful for parents to navigate. While NICU discharge typically includes basic in-hospital education and printed resources, these materials can be difficult to retain, generalized rather than personalized, and are often inadequate in addressing the diverse needs and concerns of families in this high-stress period (McNeil, 2023). According to Dr. Deborah McNeil of AHS’ Maternal, Newborn, Child and Youth Strategic Clinical Network, caring for a preterm baby both in-hospital and at home “requires extensive support over time” (Alberta Health Services, 2023). In Alberta, NICUs are currently operating at 95-103% capacity, which makes it challenging for staff to allocate the necessary time to prepare each family fully for discharge (Lee, 2024). This gap in support often leads to increased parental anxiety, confusion, and even isolation, which in turn can contribute to a higher likelihood of emergency room visits after discharge. Studies indicate that comprehensive discharge support can reduce emergency visits by up to 26% (Alberta Health Services, 2023). Without effective guidance, parents may struggle with crucial health-related activities, such as feeding, tracking weight gain, or recognizing early warning signs, often resorting to non-credible sources like internet searches or informal advice that can compromise infant health (Frey et al., 2022). For rural families, who may be further isolated from specialized healthcare, this need for reliable, accessible information is even more pressing. Without support, parents may delay care due to uncertainty or seek emergency services for questions better suited to primary care (Hannan et al., 2020). In a healthcare system already stretched thin, these unnecessary visits increase costs, wait times, and healthcare provider burnout, with nearly half of all pediatric readmissions involving infants less than one year old, and costs per readmission reaching $5,087 to $11,341 USD (Hannan et al., 2020). 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 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. How it Works NeoApp offers a comprehensive suite of features, including: Personalized Educational Content: Parents receive tailored guidance based on their baby's surgery, developmental milestones, and health data. Data Collection & Predictive Analysis: Parents input health and behavioral data, which the app analyzes to help predict care needs and identify potential issues. Peer Support & Community Resources: NeoApp connects parents to a supportive network and local resources, helping reduce feelings of isolation. Daily Check-ins and Milestones: The app provides checklists and milestones to support parents’ daily routines, helping them feel reassured and informed at each stage of recovery. Other Known Cases: For adult colorectal surgery (and a few other specialities), SeamlessMD uses an ERAS-based app https://www.seamless.md . Further, there is another app called NICU2Home that focuses more wihtin NICU and discharge process for neonates that are premature, but not surgical neonates https://nicu2home.fsm.northwestern.edu Get Involved To Learn More Email Mary Brindle to learn more Get in touch mbrindle@ariadnelabs.org 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

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Point of Care Ultrasound (Acumen - POCUS) — Lead: Michelle Grinman Co-Lead: Steve Reid Co-Investigator: Ghazwan Altabbaa INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Chronic Disease Population and Setting — Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization; Wearable Technology, Imaging & Biosensors BENEFITS For Users Remote Access: Physicians can interpret ultrasound scans from any location, ensuring timely diagnostics and reducing patient visits to acute care facilities. Enhanced Learnability: Clinicians gain new skills in ultrasound use and interpretation, improving their diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Cost and Complexity Reduction: The platform lowers the barriers to implementing POCUS by simplifying workflows and reducing reliance on expensive, complex equipment. Earlier Interventions: The system enables the invention, validation, and scaling of new therapies, supporting early and effective treatment for patients. For The System Improved Access: Presuna democratizes access to advanced diagnostic tools, making them available in underserved or community settings. Optimized Resources: Reduces strain on acute care facilities by enabling diagnostics and treatments within the community. Scalability: Facilitates the development and adoption of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, enhancing healthcare delivery. Cost Efficiency: Lowers the overall costs of care delivery while maintaining high-quality patient outcomes. Project Theme Information Current State Chronic diseases caused a loss of approximately 1.6 billion healthy years of life globally in 2019, with the burden rapidly increasing. Healthcare systems are further strained by pandemics and other pressures, resulting in worsened patient outcomes. While Ultrasound Guided Therapies (UGTs) can improve care through early and effective interventions, their complexity and high costs limit their use, particularly in underserved areas and outside hospital settings. This creates a pressing need for accessible, cost-effective solutions for diagnostics and treatment. 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 Presuna is a software platform designed to make point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) scans more accessible and affordable. It simplifies the interpretation of lung and Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) ultrasound scans by providing diagnostic support for healthcare professionals. By integrating with existing POCUS systems, Presuna enables community-based care, reduces reliance on acute care facilities, and facilitates earlier interventions for chronic and acute conditions. How it Works Scan Acquisition: Community paramedics or healthcare professionals acquire ultrasound scans using Health Canada-approved POCUS systems, such as Lumify. Platform Integration: The scans are uploaded to the Presuna platform, which automatically notifies physicians for remote interpretation. Physician Review: Physicians can access and interpret the scans anytime, anywhere, using the platform to guide diagnostic decisions and recommend interventions. Skill Development: The platform supports clinicians in learning and integrating ultrasound interpretation into their workflow, broadening their diagnostic capabilities. Get Involved Contact to Collaborate To collaborate or to help tell our story, please contact Michelle Grinman Get in touch michelle.grinman@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