Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Start the Breathe The Remote Drone-Delivered Project to Deliver Immediate Care At-the-Scene for Respiratory Distress Lead: Wade Hawkins Co-Lead: Andy Kirkpatrick . INNOVATION STAGE Proof of Concept and Implementation/Integration Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Adult, Rural & Remote Technology and Intervention Robotics, actuators, and human interfaces; Digital Communication BENEFITS For Users Immediate Access to Life-Saving Medical Care: Patients receive essential medical supplies quickly, providing crucial aid before responders arrive. Life-Saving Interventions: Timely delivery of medical kits and telemedicine support helps prevent fatalities in remote or high-risk locations. Enhanced Survival Rates: Prompt intervention and monitoring significantly improve survival chances and recovery outcomes. Students of Public Health Safety: Practical insights and learning opportunities from a cutting-edge, real-world application of technology in emergency care. Enhanced Safety: Families gain peace of mind knowing that advanced technology is available to assist loved ones in emergencies. Community Health Improvement: Increased access to timely medical care can improve overall community health and reduce fatality rates. Empowerment and Independence: Communities become more resilient and self-reliant, with better tools to manage emergencies. For The System Research Opportunities: Creates data for advancing research in remote healthcare, leading to new innovations and practical applications. Revenue Generation: Potential for revenue through licensing of drone technology and associated medical equipment. Collaboration and Funding: Attracts partnerships and investment from stakeholders interested in pioneering healthcare delivery. Optimized Emergency Response: Enhances response efficiency, reducing strain on conventional emergency services. Scalable Solutions: Develops scalable models for healthcare delivery, adaptable to various underserved regions. Enhanced Healthcare Infrastructure: Strengthens healthcare systems through advanced technological integration. Cost Savings: Reduces healthcare costs by preventing severe complications and lowering the need for extensive emergency interventions. Project Theme Information Current State People in remote or hard-to-reach areas, such as those hiking on treacherous paths, living in isolated communities, or trapped in emergency situations like fires, often struggle to receive immediate medical care. Limited access to medical intervention in these critical moments can be fatal. Additionally, a lack of telemedicine and remote monitoring capabilities in these locations increases stress and risks for individuals and places extra pressure on emergency responders, who may be delayed in reaching patients. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation This intervention consists of a fleet of drones designed to deliver medical kits to inaccessible or remote locations where emergency responders face delays. These drones are equipped to carry essential medical supplies directly to patients, integrating seamlessly with emergency response and tele-mentoring protocols to provide life-saving support when seconds count. How it Works Drones capable of carrying scalable payloads are dispatched to deliver medical kits directly to patients in remote locations. These drones are integrated into existing emergency response systems, providing immediate access to medical care and telemedicine support. Additionally, remote monitoring tools enable tracking of vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, oxygen levels) to help responders make informed decisions and administer prompt interventions. This approach buys critical time, enhancing survival outcomes while reducing the burden on emergency responders. Other Known Cases: Medical Supply Delivery: Drones are used to deliver emergency medical supplies, vaccines, and blood to remote or disaster-struck areas. For example, Zipline has successfully delivered blood products to hospitals in rural Rwanda and Ghana. Search and Rescue Operations: Drones assist in locating missing or injured persons in hard-to-reach areas, using thermal imaging to find people in forests, mountains, or during natural disasters. Telemedicine: Drones equipped with communication devices deliver medical kits and allow doctors to guide patients remotely. This concept has been tested in disaster zones where medical personnel cannot reach quickly. Organ Transportation: Drones have been tested to transport organs for transplant between hospitals, reducing transportation time significantly and improving patient outcomes. Get Involved Join Drone Trials Join our winter and spring drone delivery trials or participate in research design—email to sign up! Get in touch wade.hawkins@sait.ca . View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Technology Acceptance Measuring Perceptions and Attitudes Towards eHealth and mHealth Technologies among Older Adults in Central Alberta Lead: Reiko Yeap Co-Lead: Greg Wells . INNOVATION STAGE Exploration Health Innovation Focus Health Promotion & Prevention Population and Setting Older adults, Rural and Remote, Central Alberta Technology and Intervention — BENEFITS For Users Enhanced Accessibility: Older adults gain access to specialized care and remote health monitoring without the need for extensive travel. Reduced Anxiety: User-friendly platforms designed for older adults improve confidence and ease of use. Support for Independent Living: Digital tools enable older adults to maintain health and well-being while aging in place. For The System Inclusive Technology Design: Insights help developers create healthcare platforms that better meet the needs of older adults. Improved Healthcare Access: Addressing adoption barriers leads to more widespread use of digital health tools, improving health outcomes for underserved populations. Enhanced Quality of Life: Reduced isolation and more efficient care delivery contribute to better overall health and well-being. Project Theme Information Current State Access to healthcare in Central Alberta presents significant challenges for older adults, particularly those living in rural or remote areas. Residents often need to travel to larger cities like Calgary or Edmonton for specialized care, leading to increased travel time, expenses, and prolonged wait times. Current digital health technologies, such as eHealth and mHealth platforms, are underutilized by older adults due to poor design, lack of user-friendly features, and limited awareness of their potential benefits. These barriers create difficulties in accessing timely care and supporting independent aging. 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 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. This project aims to bridge the gap between older adults and digital health technologies, fostering a future where virtual care supports healthy, independent aging in all communities. How it Works Data Collection: Conduct surveys and in-depth interviews with older adults to understand their perceptions, attitudes, and experiences with digital health technologies. Analysis of Barriers and Opportunities: Assess geographic, social, and technological factors affecting the adoption of eHealth and mHealth tools. Compare usage between older adults in care facilities, living independently, or with partners. Insight Development: Identify key design and implementation barriers, such as accessibility, usability, and awareness, to inform future development. Get Involved Explore Partnerships Support recruitment by reaching out to the researchers if you can help share survey information Get in touch reiko.yeap@rdpolytech.ca or gregory.wells@rdpolytech.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

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

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

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Digital self-help workbook (Mental Health) — Lead: David Hodgins . . INNOVATION STAGE Evaluation of Prototype Health Innovation Focus Mental Health & Addiction Population and Setting Vulnerable Adults Technology and Intervention Data Modelling, Platform and Dashboard Visualization BENEFITS For Users Accessibility: The digital format ensures users can access the workbook anytime, reducing barriers to treatment. Personalization: Tailored content supports the specific needs of each user based on their addiction intensity. Empowerment: Users gain practical tools to support their recovery journey independently. For The System Scalability: Reduces reliance on physical treatment centers and healthcare professionals, addressing workforce shortages. Efficiency: Differentiates treatment approaches for chronic and early-stage addicts, improving outcomes. Continuous Improvement: User data helps refine the workbook, making it an increasingly effective resource. Project Theme Information Current State The current healthcare system treats addiction in a disorganized manner, lacking a standardized approach to cater to different stages of addiction. There is little distinction between chronic addiction and early-stage addiction, leading to ineffective interventions. Additionally, workforce shortages and limited treatment centers exacerbate the problem, leaving many addicts without timely support. 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 digital self-help workbook is designed using insights and knowledge from recovered addicts. This innovative tool tailors treatment based on addiction intensity and promotes natural recovery by offering accessible and practical resources for users. Furthermore, the workbook has the potential to evolve and improve through continuous user feedback and data analysis. How it Works The workbook is a digital, self-help tool accessible to users anytime and anywhere. It provides structured content and exercises tailored to the user's stage of addiction, helping them work toward recovery at their own pace. The system also collects anonymous user data to refine and enhance the workbook, making it more effective for future users. Other Known Cases: UCLA's Gambling Studies Program has developed a self-help workbook aimed at individuals motivated to quit or reduce gambling-related problems. Research has also been conducted in countries like Finland, Sweden, and New Zealand to evaluate the effectiveness of self-management strategies for gambling addiction. Get Involved Contact to Collaborate Email David Hodgins to explore partnership opportunities Get in touch dhodgins@ucalgary.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 # 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 # 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

Jill de Grood jointly leads the W21C Research and Innovation Centre with Dr. Jaime Kaufman, PhD. Together, Jill and Jaime support the strategic direction of the initiative, promoting W21C’s value proposition as an organization dedicated to research, innovation, and education. They support day-to-day W21C operations and processes, and lead specific portfolios. Jill completed her Master’s degree in Sociology at the University of Calgary. Her thesis project examined factors impacting lawyer’s physical and mental health. She completed a Certificate in Professional Management in 2015 and received her Project Management Professional Certification in 2018. Jill has been in an evolving leadership role with W21C for more than nine years, and became Director of the Centre in 2013. Over the years, Jill has led and been involved in numerous industry partner projects in areas such as technology assessment, infection prevention and control, and examining the effectiveness and impact of health care innovations for patient care. Jill is a published author with fourteen journal publications along with a number of knowledge translation pieces. As Director of Development and Partnerships, Jill continues to bring a strategic perspective to the W21C, to solve challenges and identify opportunities for the Centre. Jill is responsible for establishing and enhancing new and existing community partnerships with government and external organizations. Jill oversees the clinical trials and human factors teams in conjunction with Michelle Wright. She is also accountable for externally focused innovation support programs like SPARK Calgary. W21C Leadership Representative Jill de Grood  jill.degrood@ucalgary.ca NEXT OPERATIONS MEMBER PREVIOUS OPERATIONS MEMBER

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

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. THEME 1: BRIDGING COMMUNITY AND ACUTE CARE Date Advancing eHealth Innovation to Enable Intelligent Patient Monitoring January 2024 Prevention of pressure injuries (PIs) is a priority for healthcare systems worldwide. Also referred to as pressure ulcers or bedsores, this condition is a skin and soft tissue injury that forms because of constant or prolonged pressure on the skin, typically occurring at bony areas on the body. Most prevalent in healthcare settings where the patient is unable to move frequently enough to relieve the pressure, PIs are painful for the patient and can lead to a deterioration in health, increased hospital stays, and even death. To address this issue, W21C partnered with XSENSOR Technology Corporation, a Calgary-based company that designs, manufactures, and sells advanced pressure-imaging systems for use in medical environments worldwide. With support from W21C’s research team, this led to the creation of a novel pressure sensing device - the ForeSite PT™ System. In late 2007, an opportunity arose for W21C to partner with XSENSOR in the development and testing of a health innovation. The main objectives of this initiative were to better understand the potential of innovative technology to support healthcare providers in caring for patients at risk of pressure injuries. W21C’s initial role was to collect and analyze focus group feedback from physicians, nurses, nursing assistants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and pressure mapping experts. Over time this progressed to usability testing of a protype device in a simulated Intensive Care Unit. Each phase of W21C research was followed by a design cycle at XSENSOR that consisted of research on every aspect of the system, including overall architecture, transducer design, sensing electronics, software, mechanical design, and packaging. Through funding provided by Alberta Innovates ‘Accelerating Innovations into Care’ program, XSENSOR once again, approached W21C in 2023 to support the evaluation and impact on workflow of an updated system (referred to as ForeSite IS) in acute and long-term care, and to evaluate the device’s ability to predict skin breakdown of patients at elevated risk of PIs. This study is currently under way at Foothills Medical Centre and throughout several long-term care sites in the Calgary area. To learn more about this project and its commercial capabilities, please visit XSENSOR’s website . Image Sources: Adobe Stock (top), XSENSOR.com (middle) Dr. Jaime Kaufman