Theme 1: Bridging Community and Acute Care UPTAKE VC Virtual Care for Safer Recovery After Acute Kidney Injury 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 Theme 1: Bridging Community and Acute Care UPTAKE VC Virtual Care for Safer Recovery After Acute Kidney Injury 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. Without consistent follow-up monitoring or clinical oversight, patients with AKI face a heightened risk of severe and potentially irreversible health complications after discharge. 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. Without consistent follow-up monitoring or clinical oversight, patients with AKI face a heightened risk of severe and potentially irreversible health complications after discharge. THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION The Virtual Home Hospital (VHH) program delivers hospital-level care at home through virtual technology and scheduled in-person visits. Designed to strengthen continuity of care, the program supports patients, including those with AKI, by offering tailored follow-up and monitoring services after discharge. VHH enables a safer, more supported transition from hospital to home and keeps patients connected to their care team during a period of heightened health risk. THE INNOVATION The Virtual Home Hospital (VHH) program delivers hospital-level care at home through virtual technology and scheduled in-person visits. Designed to strengthen continuity of care, the program supports patients, including those with AKI, by offering tailored follow-up and monitoring services after discharge. VHH enables a safer, more supported transition from hospital to home and keeps patients connected to their care team during a period of heightened health risk. HOW IT WORKS Patients enrolled in the VHH program are discharged with home-monitoring devices that allow the healthcare team to track key health indicators in real time. Through virtual consultations and scheduled in-person visits, providers can closely monitor the patient’s AKI progression, respond promptly to any health changes, and adjust care plans as needed. This approach mirrors the care continuity of an AKI-specific after-visit summary through a technology-enabled home care model. HOW IT WORKS Patients enrolled in the VHH program are discharged with home-monitoring devices that allow the healthcare team to track key health indicators in real time. Through virtual consultations and scheduled in-person visits, providers can closely monitor the patient’s AKI progression, respond promptly to any health changes, and adjust care plans as needed. This approach mirrors the care continuity of an AKI-specific after-visit summary through a technology-enabled home care model. THE BENEFITS For Users Hospital-Level Care at Home: Patients receive structured follow-up and oversight without remaining in hospital. Timely Monitoring and Intervention: Regular monitoring and timely interventions reduce likelihood of long-term complications. Personalized Support: Patients receive guidance on managing AKI and other health conditions through virtual and in-person support. Improved Adherence: Ongoing engagement encourages completion of follow-up care and treatment plans. Greater Confidence and Independence: Support at home strengthens recovery while keeping patients connected to their care team. For The System Reduced Readmissions : Monitoring and timely support help lower AKI-related return visits and hospitalizations. Efficient Resource Use: Delivering hospital-level care at home frees inpatient capacity and supports better use of care facilities. Innovative, Patient-Centred Care: Demonstrates a commitment to decentralized care models that extend beyond the hospital. Supports Virtual Care Adoption: Strengthens system readiness for virtual healthcare technologies and value-based care. Scalable Home-Care Model: Structure can be adapted for other chronic conditions, contributing to long-term system evolution. THE BENEFITS For Users Hospital-Level Care at Home: Patients receive structured follow-up and oversight without remaining in hospital. Timely Monitoring and Intervention: Regular monitoring and timely interventions reduce likelihood of long-term complications. Personalized Support: Patients receive guidance on managing AKI and other health conditions through virtual and in-person support. Improved Adherence: Ongoing engagement encourages completion of follow-up care and treatment plans. Greater Confidence and Independence: Support at home strengthens recovery while keeping patients connected to their care team. For The System Reduced Readmissions : Monitoring and timely support help lower AKI-related return visits and hospitalizations. Efficient Resource Use: Delivering hospital-level care at home frees inpatient capacity and supports better use of care facilities. Innovative, Patient-Centred Care: Demonstrates a commitment to decentralized care models that extend beyond the hospital. Supports Virtual Care Adoption: Strengthens system readiness for virtual healthcare technologies and value-based care. Scalable Home-Care Model: Structure can be adapted for other chronic conditions, contributing to long-term system evolution. Ready to Keep Exploring? If you’d like to learn more or connect about UPTAKE VC , visit: UPTAKE Webpage 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.

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. 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. 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 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 News 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

Back Innovation Sep 6, 2023 | 3 min read  Pamela Hyde Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants At a glance Three UCalgary-led initiatives have received $20.3M from Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund to accelerate innovation in medical devices, digital health, and space and defence technologies. Funded projects include the Alberta Medical Device Innovation Consortium, Health Everywhere, and Space and Defence Technologies Alberta, with each focused on research-to-commercialization pipelines. These initiatives bring together researchers, industry, and community partners across Alberta to drive economic growth, talent development, and real-world innovation impact. 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.  Pamela Hyde Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph 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

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. 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.  Alex Baron Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph 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

Back Research Sep 11, 2023 | 4 min read  Alex Baron Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link UCalgary-based program expands province-wide in supporting digital health researchers At a glance SPARK Alberta, based out of UCalgary’s W21C, is expanding province-wide due to new funding from Alberta Innovates. The program helps post-secondary innovators move their digital health solutions from research into clinical use by providing expert guidance, education, and ecosystem connections. As Canada’s only active site in the global SPARK network, SPARK Alberta is building a coordinated provincial network to accelerate digital health translation and impact. 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.”  Alex Baron Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph 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

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. 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.  Health Everywhere Team Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link paragraph 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

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 Events Explore upcoming events and opportunities to get involved in the Health Everywhere Hub. ABOUT US Events Explore upcoming events and opportunities to get involved in the Health Everywhere Hub. UPCOMING EVENTS More events coming soon. Event Title Event Information Date Time Place Register PAST EVENTS ERINnovation Meetup Sep 4, 2025 Part of Life Sciences Week, this health and life sciences-themed event hosted at NAIT featured a Reverse Pitch Competition, shared current challenges, and created connections with ecosystem partners and industry experts. Health Everywhere Innovation Showcase Dec 9, 2024 Through interactive gallery showcases, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, this event provided a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research projects and help drive their progress through the innovation pathway—from concept to real-world implementation. Health Everywhere Launch Event Mar 6, 2024 Hosted by the W21C Research and Innovation Centre, this event honoured the contributions of Dr. Mamoru “Mo” Watanabe as well as 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. 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).

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 PAUSE Preventing medication complications during AcUte illness through Symptom Evaluation and sick day guidance Lead: David Campbell (Lead) Co-Lead: Matt James Project Coordinator: Shania Liu INNOVATION STAGE Proof of Concept Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Adults Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization BENEFITS For Users Personalized Medication Guidance: Offers individualized advice on when to stop or restart medications during illness, helping patients avoid adverse effects. Improved Self-Management: Empowers patients to take control of their medication management, reducing the need to rely on healthcare providers for guidance during minor illnesses. Prevention of Hospital Visits: Clear instructions reduce the likelihood of complications that may otherwise lead to emergency department visits or hospitalizations. For The System Reduced Emergency Visits: By providing patients with accessible guidance, the app helps prevent avoidable ER visits due to improper medication use. Support for Health Innovation and Evaluation: Integrated decision-support features and mechanisms for pragmatic trials (e.g., e-recruitment, randomization) enable ongoing evaluation and refinement of the app in collaboration with Connect Care and AHS Research Services. Enhanced Chronic Disease Management: By empowering patients to manage medications more effectively, the app supports better long-term health outcomes, reducing strain on healthcare resources. Project Theme Information Current State Many patients are unsure of when to pause or restart their medications during illness, potentially leading to harmful complications such as dehydration, kidney damage, or fainting-related falls. Existing resources often provide general information that may not be relevant to individual needs, leaving patients without specific, personalized guidance during acute illness episodes. 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 Pause app is a digital tool designed to help patients manage their medications safely during times of illness. By providing personalized, symptom-based guidance, the app instructs users on when to temporarily stop or restart medications, helping to prevent complications and suggesting when to seek medical advice. How it Works Family physicians introduce the app to patients when they are prescribed new medications, ensuring patients have access to a personalized resource if they become ill. Pharmacists can further support patients by discussing medication management during sickness and encouraging the use of the app. The app provides symptom-based instructions on medication management, along with alerts to seek medical care if needed. Get Involved Explore Collaborations Visit our website or email Shania Liu to explore collaboration opportunities Get in touch shania.liu@ualberta.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

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Peer Information and Mentorship Using Spatial Meetings Technologies — Lead: Martin Ferguson-Pell Team Members: Adalberto Loyola-Sanchez, Chester Ho, Brenda Kinnie, Matin Dokht Taghirad INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Community Technology and Intervention Digital Communication BENEFITS For Users Less Isolation: Immersive virtual meetings help participants feel more connected to peers and reduce the sense of physical isolation. Practical Guidance: Participants gain valuable advice from others with lived experience, helping them navigate life in the community. Enhanced Engagement: Spatial meetings provide a more interactive and compelling experience compared to traditional video conferencing tools. For The System Improved Transitions: Participants experience a smoother, more effective transition to independent living, reducing the need for ongoing clinical or institutional support. Community Building: The program strengthens peer networks, creating a supportive environment for individuals with SCI. Scalable Solution: Spatial meeting technologies offer a novel, scalable approach to addressing the needs of people living in isolation, particularly in rural and remote areas. Project Theme Information Current State People living with spinal cord injuries (SCI), both traumatic and non-traumatic, often face significant challenges during the transition from acute rehabilitation to community life. Physical isolation, limited access to peer networks, and a lack of practical guidance can make this transition difficult, particularly for those in rural or remote areas. Traditional virtual meeting tools, such as Zoom, may not fully address the need for engaging and immersive peer interactions. 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 project demonstrates the use of spatial meeting technologies to create immersive and engaging peer support networks for individuals with SCI. By comparing the merits of spatial meetings to traditional Zoom meetings, the project explores how virtual reality (VR) environments can foster meaningful connections and reduce isolation. The meetings are facilitated by experienced coordinators from SCI Alberta and focus on providing practical advice for successful community living. How it Works Virtual Reality Spatial Meetings: Participants use VR technologies to meet in immersive virtual spaces, enhancing engagement and interaction. Sessions are designed to simulate in-person peer meetings, providing a more compelling alternative to traditional virtual platforms like Zoom. Coordinated Peer Support: Experienced coordinators from SCI Alberta lead the meetings, fostering discussions around practical advice for community living. Topics include navigating daily challenges, accessing resources, and building independence. Comparative Evaluation: The project evaluates the relative merits of spatial meetings versus traditional Zoom meetings, assessing factors like participant engagement, effectiveness of peer advice, and reduction in isolation. 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