2024 Health System Impact Fellow Profiles

Profile:
Building Health Equity Capacity in the Cancer Care of Racialized Populations in Alberta Name: Harkeert Judge Host Partner Organization: Alberta Health Services Strategic Clinical Networks Location (city, province): Edmonton, Alberta Academic Institution: University of Alberta PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I will be working with Alberta Health Services' Cancer Strategic Clinical Network and utilizing a patient-oriented research approach. The aim of this fellowship is to build health equity capacity in cancer care with racialized populations. Through patient and community engagement we hope this work will advance racialized populations' cancer care experiences and outcomes.
Implementation Strategies for Reducing Antipsychotic Medication Use in Long-term Care Homes at Vancouver Coastal Health: Closing the Learning Cycle Loop Name: Karen Lok Yi Wong Host Partner Organization: Vancouver Coastal Health Authority Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network (DSEN) & Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work This research will examine the implementation of strategies for reducing antipsychotic medication use in long-term care in Vancouver. I pursue this project because I care about this topic as a social worker with clinical experience in long-term care. I hope this project can support the implementation of the strategies and reduce the inappropriate use of antipsychotic medication in long-term care. Website: Karen Lok Yi Wong LinkedIn: Karen Lok Yi Wong
A proactive approach to health: integrating personalized physical activity behaviour change support into inflammatory arthritis care Name: Manuel Ester Host Partner Organization: Alberta Health Services Location (city, province): Calgary, Alberta Academic Institution: University of Calgary PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis (CIHR-IMHA) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I am an applied researcher with a passion for implementing proactive health promotion strategies that leverage innovative behaviour change solutions. My project will co-develop and implement a tailored physical activity intervention within inflammatory arthritis care, improving health behaviours and providing a model for enhanced integration of physical activity support across chronic disease care. LinkedIn: Manuel Ester
The real-world impact of ETI (TRIKAFTA®) on prescribing patterns, clinical outcomes, and healthcare utilization for Patients with CF living in British Columbia Name: Mehdi Jafari Host Partner Organization: Cystic Fibrosis Care BC (CFCBC) Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network (DSEN) & Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I focus on evaluating the real-world impacts of Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor (ETI) on cystic fibrosis patients, aiming to optimize treatment strategies and healthcare resource utilization. This research strives to enhance patient outcomes and inform health policy, ultimately contributing to sustainable, evidence-based, and patient-centered care for CF worldwide. LinkedIn: Mehdi Jafari
Training personal support workers for sustainable careers in long-term care Name: Pamela J Hopwood Host Partner Organization: Schlegel UW Research Institute for Aging Location (city, province): Waterloo, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Waterloo PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Healthcare worker shortages make sustainable careers for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) a pressing issue. I will examine job expectations and career preparation for PSWs training within the Living Classroom education model to contribute insight into how training can promote worker retention. This study will be part of a larger training program evaluation at Schlegel UW Research Institute for Aging. LinkedIn: Pamela J Hopwood Google Scholar: Pamela J Hopwood X account: Pamela J Hopwood
Evaluation and Intervention Framework for Vaping Cessation in the Canadian Health System Name: Javad Heshmati Host Partner Organization: University of Ottawa Heart Institute Location (city, province): Ottawa, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Ottawa PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) & CIHR Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health, and Addiction (CIHR-INMHA) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research focuses on developing and implementing effective vaping cessation strategies within Canada's health system, addressing public health challenges posed by vaping. Through rigorous methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, I aim to bridge research gaps and contribute to reducing vaping-related health risks, ultimately improving population health and healthcare outcomes.
Applying a health equity lens to the Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) Framework Name: Laura J. Kennedy Host Partner Organization: IWK Health Location (city, province): Halifax, Nova Scotia Academic Institution: Dalhousie University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research explores the impacts of health promotion in healthcare. For my project, I will develop and apply a health equity lens to the Knowledge-to-Action framework to implement an Adult Comfort Care intervention. This intervention aims to reduce reported pain experienced by women undergoing non-invasive procedures and could improve care at IWK Health for women and equity-deserving populations.
Harnessing Research to Support Public Health Implementation: Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Syphilis Point of Care Testing Name: Lucy Mackrell Host Partner Organization: Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health Location (city, province): Kingston, Ontario Academic Institution: Queen's University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work As a clinical social worker, the systemic inequities in Canadian healthcare became starkly apparent. My research aims to identify barriers and facilitators to syphilis testing and treatment for individuals who are un(der)housed and/or use drugs, who are disproportionately affected by syphilis and face significant barriers in accessing care. I aim to identify and evaluate strategies that can bridge these gaps. Website: Epix Research LinkedIn: Lucy Mackrell
Supporting Childhood Wellness and Nutrition: Developing School Food Programs in Saskatchewan Name: Kaylee Michnik Host Partner Organization: Saskatchewan School Boards Association Location (city, province): Saskatchewan Academic Institution: University of Saskatchewan PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH) & Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Kaylee is Registered Dietitian with ten years of Canadian public health experience currently completing a PhD in school food program research. Under a new Canadian school food policy, this project aims to support the translation of best practice evidence and advance research in school food programs in Saskatchewan and Canada through data collection, partnership, knowledge exchange, and advocacy.
An Equity-Focused Implementation Process Evaluation of a School-Based Peer Education Youth Vaping Intervention Name: Jianna Quickstad Host Partner Organization: Alberta Health Services Location (city, province): Central Alberta Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Cancer Research (CIHR-ICR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research will evaluate An Influential Generation – A Conversation About Vaping school-based peer education intervention in Central Alberta Schools. The evaluation will examine the implementation processes and equity related barriers and enablers to implementation. Actionable recommendations will be produced to improve implementation and the experiences of intervention partners and peer learners prior to provincial expansion supported by Alberta Health Services. LinkedIn: Jianna Quickstad
Equity in Palliative Care: Exploring Promising Practices Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness in Canadian Hospices Name: Jeffrey Walsh Host Partner Organization: Providence Health Care Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: McGill University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research identifies and explores promising practices for precariously housed people in hospices. In the 12 years I worked in healthcare, I witnessed the innovative practices and solutions of my colleagues providing end-of-life care for this population. My goal is that other hospices can use this research to implement practices which improve end-of-life care in their communities.
Understanding Provider Networks in Complex Mental Health Care Delivery in Integrated Health Systems Name: Amber Gillespie Host Partner Organization: Guelph Wellington Ontario Health Team Location (city, province): Guelph, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Guelph PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Institute of Gender and Health About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research will apply network analysis methodologies to complex mental health service delivery within an Ontario Health Team. With 16 years of experience as a registered nurse, I am driven by a commitment to addressing systemic challenges that hinder effective mental health care. My goal is to contribute to improving care for those most in need.
Investigating how the distance between communities and community health centers in Mali affects the use of reproductive and community case management services provided by community health workers Name: Julia Hajjar Host Partner Organization: The Canadian Red Cross Location (city, province): Ottawa, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Ottawa PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Institute of Gender and Health About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research explores reproductive, maternal, and newborn child health (RMNCH) service utilization in Mali, with a focus on distance between communities and community health centers. I wish to contribute to the development of programs and strategies that reduce maternal-child morbidity and mortality rates and promote health equity to best support underserved populations in fragile contexts globally.
Improving Services for Autistic Individuals by Strengthening the Data-to-Policy Pipeline Name: Christiane Gwendolin Roth Host Partner Organization: Autism Alliance of Canada Location (city, province): British Columbia Academic Institution: University of Calgary PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (CIHR-IHDCYH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work The complex needs of autistic individuals require cross sectoral service access to more effectively support their healthy development and participation in society. Unfortunately, social inclusion and timely access to health or social system supports is not the reality. With my project, I am analyzing service use patterns in administrative data to inform policy that builds inclusive and equitable societies. Website: Disability Policy Research Program; Autism Alliance of Canada LinkedIn: Christiane Gwendolin Roth
The utilization of environmental genomic data in the prediction of emerging and endemic pathogen dynamics Name: Rebeca Cardim Falcao Host Partner Organization: BC Centre for Disease Control Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My work aims to enhance disease surveillance by using mathematical models to link infected populations with wastewater viral loads, and by developing predictive models. I hope to support epidemic preparedness, interventions assessment and to inform resource allocation, ultimately building capacity and modernizing public health solutions through data science and evidence-based decision-making. Website: Rebeca Cardim Falcao
A Holistic Approach to Medication Management in the Home Care Setting: Developing and Implementing an Evidence and Technology-Centered Program for Medication Management Name: Alyssa Iglar Host Partner Organization: VHA Home HealthCare Location (city, province): Toronto, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I will work with VHA Home HealthCare on a project involving the development, implementation, and evaluation of a technology-centred medication management program for older adults who are aging in place. Findings from this research could guide future medication management technology selections as well as program implementations in homecare settings, thereby supporting older adults' safety and capacity to age in place. Google Scholar: Alyssa Iglar ResearchGate: Alyssa Iglar
Advancing measurement-based care in school mental health settings: Development and implementation of a standardized protocol Name: Nicole Dryburgh Host Partner Organization: School Mental Health Ontario Location (city, province): Hamilton, Ontario Academic Institution: Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, and Harvard University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Schools are the most common setting in which youth receive mental health care in Ontario, but there is need for accessible, evidence-informed assessment in this setting. Leveraging over ten years of clinical and research experience with youth, I will engage with key parties including youth and professionals to co-create a standardized protocol for measurement-based care in school mental health settings. X: Nicole Dryburgh ResearchGate: Nicole Dryburgh
Measuring what matters: Working towards collaborative performance measurement of Ontario's public health interventions for chronic disease prevention Name: Kimberly Harding Host Partner Organization: Public Health Ontario Location (city, province): Toronto, ON Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Cancer Research (CIHR-ICR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work In Ontario, there is currently no overall understanding of the performance of public health chronic disease prevention (CDP) interventions because local public health units report on their programs differently. My research aims to collaboratively develop, implement, and evaluate standardized approaches for measuring performance of public health CDP programs with consideration of equity, and support the development of provincial CDP Strategy. LinkedIn: Kimberly Harding
How do teams work? Exploring the social organization of work in primary care Name: Q. Jane Zhao Host Partner Organization: Alliance for Healthier Communities Location (city, province): Toronto, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Primary care is the bedrock of our healthcare system, yet it is in crisis. Teams are touted as a solution, but how do they coordinate efficient and effective care? As a critical qualitative researcher, I'm interested in the ways primary care is organized. This fellowship will enable me to explore the social organization of work within team-based clinics across Ontario.
Enhancing case management services for older adults accessing Nova Scotia Health Continuing Care Name: Kelly C O'Neil Host Partner Organization: Nova Scotia Health Location (city, province): Halifax, Nova Scotia Academic Institution: Mount Saint Vincent University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Aging (CIHR-IA) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work This collaboration will generate new knowledge about engaging, understanding, and supporting older adults with complex conditions and the continuing care staff who provide services for them. I bring a critical perspective focused on equity in older adults' access to health and social care, and I am excited by the opportunities ahead to effect positive health systems change in my community.
Optimizing Cardiac Rehabilitation: Improving Patient Benefits and Healthcare Efficiency Name: Ariany Marques Vieira Host Partner Organization: Ottawa Heart Institute Location (city, province): Ottawa, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Ottawa PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (CIHR-ICRH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Cardiac rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, quality of life and reduces hospitalizations and mortality, but it remains underutilized, especially among complex cases and certain populations. My research aims to optimize Canada's largest cardiac rehabilitation program by investigating disparities in access and effectiveness, developing inclusive strategies to enhance patient outcomes, also to inform policy and guidelines to reduce cardiovascular disease impact. LinkedIn: Ariany Marques Vieira X: Ariany Marques Vieira
Evaluating and implementing gender-affirming care in Québec: A cohort study and clinical capacity building strategy Name: Kira London-Nadeau Host Partner Organization: Centre hospitalier universitaire Sainte-Justine Location (city, province): Montreal, Quebec Academic Institution: University of Montreal PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (CIHR-IHDCYH) and Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Gender-affirming services appear to positively impact transgender and gender-diverse youth (TGDY), however much research and clinical training remain necessary to support this population. Through my fellowship in the Sainte-Justine Gender Diversity Clinic, I will work in collaboration with TGDY and healthcare stakeholders to provide robust, longitudinal research, as well as knowledge sharing and training opportunities for providers across Quebec. Website: Kira London-Nadeau
Amplifying patient voices to guide nutrition-focused transitions of care from hospital to home Name: Pamela Klassen Host Partner Organization: Alberta Health Services Location (city, province): Edmonton, Alberta Academic Institution: University of Alberta PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes (CIHR-INMD) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Identifying and treating disease-related malnutrition improves health outcomes and prevents hospital readmissions. My project seeks to understand barriers to successful nutrition-focused transitions of care for adults diagnosed with malnutrition while in hospital. Consultation and co-design with patients, dietitians and community partners will create tools to address these barriers, empowering patients to implement tailored nutrition-focused transition plans after hospital discharge.
Development, implementation, and evaluation of a health system embedded evidence decision support program Name: Wade Michaelchuk Host Partner Organization: Alberta Health Services Location (city, province): Edmonton, AB Academic Institution: University of Alberta PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Health system decision-makers face challenging decisions regarding the adoption, use, and funding of health technologies. To aid decision-makers, we are developing, implementing, and evaluating a health system-embedded evidence decision support program. This program aims to enhance health technology decision-making in Alberta by providing robust health technology assessments and context-specific implementation considerations for health system leaders.
’Alhgoh Ts'eke'e'ulhtsih Ts'eztidoh: We will all work together to wake up the Midwife Name: Marion Erickson Host Partner Organization: Perinatal Services BC and First Nation Health Authority Location (city, province): Nak'azdli, BC Academic Institution: University of Northern BC PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health (CIHR-IIPH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My name is Marion Erickson of the Lhts'umusyoo clan of the Dakelh Nation. My research focuses on revitalizing Dakelh midwifery to enhance maternal health in Dakelh communities. Collaborating with healthcare organizations to integrate traditional knowledge into modern practices addresses gaps in culturally safe care. I aim to restore Indigenous practices in childbirth, creating equitable, community-centered healthcare that empowers Dakelh families. Website: The Health Arts Research Centre
Strengthening climate-resilient health systems via global health programming Name: Caroline Whidden Host Partner Organization: Canadian Red Cross Society Location (city, province): Ottawa, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Waterloo PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research agenda focuses on how to reduce health and social inequities by improving access to services and strengthening systems that serve marginalized communities, in Canada and around the world. The focus of my embedded research will be using evidence and experiential learning to inform health programming in fragile and resource-constrained global setting to strengthen climate-resilient health systems and communities. LinkedIn: Caroline Whidden
Unveiling the Hidden Health Risks in BC's Water Distribution Systems Name: Patrick Mirindi Host Partner Organization: BC Ministry of Health Location (city, province): Victoria, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (CIHR-III) and Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research focuses on applying scientific knowledge to understand complex environmental systems affecting population health. At the intersection of microbiology, public health, and environmental engineering, I study systems like microbial biofilms and drinking water distribution. My goal is to protect public health by developing evidence-based health policies that integrate public health, medical knowledge, and engineering solutions.
Integrating Machine Learning and Genomic Applications for Antimicrobial Resistance Prediction in Shigella spp., Ontario, Canada Name: Mahmood Gohari Host Partner Organization: Public Health Ontario Location (city, province): Toronto, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat. Current testing methods have several limitations, including prolonged turnaround times, which can delay appropriate antimicrobial therapy. This program of research aims to develop AI-driven tools to predict AMR of Shigella spp. using whole genome sequencing. These tools will assist in antibiotic selection in clinical care and aiding in the long-term goal of controlling the spread of infections and AMR.
Community engagement and HIV research in the age of big data: Building a framework and tools for best practices Name: Kathleen Inglis Host Partner Organization: BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (BCCfE) Location (city, province): Vancouver, British Columbia Academic Institution: University of Victoria PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (CIHR-III) and Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I am a community-based researcher passionate about engaging people with lived/living experience as a matter of ethics and improved science. Our community-led administrative health data research examines recurrent cardiovascular events, comparing people living with and without HIV in BC. We will enhance capacity for community engagement in administrative data research at the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS and widely. LinkedIn: Kathleen Inglis
Bolstering Equity in Canadian Health Systems: Considerations of Healthcare Access, Experiences, and Content Standards Name: Khandideh Williams Host Partner Organization: Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) Location (city, province): Ottawa, Ontario Academic Institution: McGill University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Evidence demonstrates that persistent inequalities in care access, quality, experience, and outcomes are evident across the health system. My work will support efforts to contextualize health equity data and analysis to promote understanding of the social and system factors that contribute to healthcare inequities. This work may inform the development of data standards, analysis, system performance indicators, and stakeholder engagement. LinkedIn: Khandideh Williams
An Evaluation of Models of Care for Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction Through the Use of a Microsimulation Model Name: Blair Jordan MacDonald Host Partner Organization: Cardiac Services BC Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) & Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Heart failure is a medical condition that substantially lowers people's life expectancy and quality of life. While there are effective medications available to treat heart failure, many patients are not currently receiving optimal medication management. This research will determine whether alternative models of heart failure medication management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. X: Blair Jordan MacDonald
Promoting equity in reproductive health care in partnership with gender diverse communities in BC Name: Catriona Hippman Host Partner Organization: BC Ministry of Health Location (city, province): Victoria, BC Academic Institution: Simon Fraser University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR), Michael Smith Health Research BC & CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (CIHR-IHDCYH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Reproductive healthcare supports people through significant transitions that are highly gendered. In this embedded research, we will partner with gender diverse communities in BC to explore how reproductive healthcare can better meet their needs. My mission is to improve mental health at times of transition through feminist, person-centred research and advocacy for equitable access to healthcare. Website: Catriona Hippman
Quality, risk and safety objectives in a learning health system: The creation of data-driven knowledge to inform policy and practice for minimizing violence and trauma in a psychiatric hospital Name: Dane Mauer-Vakil Host Partner Organization: Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care Location (city, province): Penetanguishene, ON Academic Institution: University of Waterloo PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Violence originating from patients and visitors is a safety concern for hospital staff, with emergency departments and mental health units facing heightened risks for such incidents. Using a mixed methods approach, this project will contribute to the creation of knowledge for preventing violence as well as minimizing the trauma associated with restraint and seclusion, thus ensuring a safer healthcare environment. Google Scholar: Dane Mauer-Vakil ResearchGate: Dane Mauer-Vakil LinkedIn: Dane Mauer-Vakil X: Dane Mauer-Vakil
Working together to foster the development of all children in Quebec: a living laboratory to better support families and child care facilities Name: Gabrielle Pratte Host partner organization: Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux Location (City, Province): Quebec City, Quebec Educational institution: Université Laval Doctoral or postdoctoral fellowships: Postdoctoral fellowship Funder(s): Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH) and the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) [Quebec Research Funds-Health] About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research program focuses on support for children with special needs. In the coming years, I hope to successfully bring together research and the various early childhood stakeholders to ensure that the support offered to families and childcare settings best meets their needs. Website: Gabrielle Pratte (French only) LinkedIn: Gabrielle Pratte
Reducing the administrative burden of family physicians in British Columbia Name: Hayley Lawrence Host Partner Organization: Health Quality BC Location (city, province): Vancouver, British Columbia Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) & Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Twenty percent of Canadians cannot access a regular family physician (FP), which does not meet the population's needs and is an unfair service distribution. This research will evaluate strategies to reduce FPs' administrative burden, which would potentially increase patient appointments and improve FPs' workflow and work-life balance. This economic evidence will strengthen policy arguments and guide decisions on reducing administrative burden.
Informing a sustainable digital public health strategy in British Columbia Name: Ihoghosa (Muyi) Iyamu Host Partner Organization: BC Centre for Disease Control Location (city, province): Vancouver, British Columbia Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (CIHR-III) & Michael Smith Health Research BC About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work I explore factors and processes needed to implement sustainable digital public health interventions at the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC). Drawing on a decade of implementing GetCheckedOnline - BC's online service for sexually transmitted infection testing, my work aims to better integrate these interventions with health systems, guiding a sustainability strategy for digital sexual health within BCCDC and beyond. X: Ihoghosa (Muyi) Iyamu LinkedIn: Ihoghosa (Muyi) Iyamu
Equity, diversity, inclusion and cultural safety in partnership with patients, families and the public Name: Jasmine Sawadogo Host partner organization: Centre of Excellence on Partnership with Patients and the Public (CEPPP) Location (City, Province): Montreal, Quebec Educational institution: Université Laval Doctoral or postdoctoral fellowships: Doctoral fellowship Funder(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Institute of Genetics About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Today, research in partnership with patients is one of the most effective strategies for obtaining reliable, concrete results. My internship is part of an effort to promote this approach, which is as applicable in both in Canada and abroad. My research will provide this approach with culturally adapted tools for more inclusive and equitable research in different contexts. LinkedIn: Jasmine Sawadogo
Optimizing the impact of health innovations to reduce repeat emergency room visits by the most vulnerable seniors Name: Laetitia Bert Partner host organization: Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de Chaudière-Appalaches (CISSS CA) Location (city and province): Lévis, Quebec Educational establishment: Université Laval Doctoral or post-doctoral award: Doctoral award Funding organizations: CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My work in community health (health services organization) is aimed at bridging the gap between research and practice when it comes to sustaining and scaling up health innovations. By issuing science-based recommendations that are tailored to field requirements, I hope to help improve the efficiency of health services and particularly health equity. ResearchGate: Laetitia Bert LinkedIn: Laetitia Bert Google Scholar: Laetitia Bert
Primary Care Innovations Amplifier Name: Mélanie Ann Smithman Host Partner Organization: Bureau de l'innovation du Ministère de la Santé et des Services Sociaux Location (city, province): Montreal, Quebec Academic Institution: HEC Montreal PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (CIHR-IHSPR) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My work focuses on establishing a “Primary Care Innovations Amplifier” in Quebec to overcome barriers to spreading, scaling, and sustaining innovations—including social innovations. By engaging key actors and integrating research, policy, and practice, I aim to advance the implementation of evidence-informed solutions that enhance health, access, equity, and resilience—recognizing primary care as the foundation of high-performing health systems. LinkedIn: Mélanie Ann Smithman
The contribution of population-based responsibility to the development of a values-based health care system: Strategic perspective of the health and welfare commissioner (Commissaire à la santé et au bien-être) Name: Pierre-Henri Roux-Levy Partner host organization: Health and welfare commissioner [Commissaire à la santé et au bien-être (CSBE)] Location (city and province): Montreal, Quebec Teaching establishment: Université de Montréal Doctoral or postdoctoral fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Funding institution: CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health Information about you and your work Our project is part of the international transformation of health systems. Developed in Quebec in the 2000s, population-based responsibility stands at the intersection of an array of systemic innovations. A solid concept, its actualization and deployment will make it possible to respond to contemporary issues, support decision makers, enhance the Quebec health care system's performance, and serve the international model. LinkedIn: Pierre-Henri Roux-Levy
Harnessing knowledge mobilization approaches to improve access to chronic infection care among people who use drugs Name: Prossy Kiddu Namyalo Host Partner Organization: Centre for Evidenced-Based Implementation (CEBI) Location (city, province): Hamilton, Ontario Academic Institution: University of Toronto PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH) & CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (CIHR-III) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Over the years, Hamilton has witnessed an unacceptably high number of new diagnoses of HIV infection among people who use drugs (PWUD). My embedded research contributes to advancing the quality of care for PWUD patients by focusing on engaging healthcare providers and knowledge users to address constraining factors and improve access to PWUD care needs. LinkedIn: Prossy Kiddu Namyalo Google Scholar: Prossy Kiddu Namyalo X: Prossy Kiddu Namyalo
Implanter des pratiques qui favorisent l'engagement des personnes vivant avec un trouble neurocognitif majeur dans des occupations importantes pour elles [Implementing practices that promote the engagement of people living with major neurocognitive disorder in occupations important to them] Name: Sarah Rahimaly Host partner organization: Jardins de Magog, a private residence for seniors Location (City, Province): Magog, Quebec Educational institution: Université de Sherbrooke Doctoral or postdoctoral fellowships: Doctoral fellowship Funder(s): CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research and Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) [Quebec Research Funds-Health] About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My project aims to understand the process of implementing practices that promote the involvement of seniors living with a major neurocognitive disorder in occupations that are important to them and rooted in their life story. I want to support caregivers and managers working in Quebec’s residential care facilities to offer care that is consistent with the identity and values of the residents. LinkedIn: Sarah Rahimaly
Access and Availability: Implementation of Specialized Adapted Physical Activity Programs for Persons with Significant Mobility Impairments Name: Stephanie Marrocco Host Partner Organization: St. Joseph's Health Care London Location (city, province): London, ON Academic Institution: Western University PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH) About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work Physical activity (PA) can improve mobility and health status. Persons with mobility impairments experience barriers to PA participation, such as a lack of adapted PA programs. My HSI fellowship aims to address this barrier by implementing such programs within rehabilitation and community settings. My career aspirations are to continue this work ensuring equitable access to suitable PA programs for all.
Extreme heat and health in Manitoba: Examining the role of individual and neighbourhood factors Name: Katherine White Host Partner Organization: Manitoba Health Location (city, province): Vancouver, BC Academic Institution: University of British Columbia PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: PhD Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work The frequency and intensity of extreme heat days is expected to continue due to ongoing climate change. Partnering with Manitoba Health, I will quantify the increased risk to the health of Manitobans during times of extreme heat exposure and identify individual and neighbourhood-built environment risk and protective factors. LinkTree: Katherine White
Empowering Military Families: A Family-Centered Approach to Mental Health for Neurodiverse Children Name: Michèle L. Hébert Host Partner Organization: Autism Alliance of Canada Location (city, province): Ottawa, ON (virtual work from Calgary, AB) Academic Institution: University of Alberta PhD or Post-doctoral Fellowship: Post-doctoral Fellowship Fellowship funder(s): CIHR Institute ofHealth Services and Policy Research and Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work My research centres on transforming inequity into equity for families with neurodiverse children. With this fellowship, leveraging my paediatric expertise, mixed-methods training, and policy collaboration, I aim to create a family-centered framework that bridges gaps between military and community healthcare, ultimately to enhance health outcomes, foster inclusion, and support policy advancements for military families to live rather than merely exist. LinkedIn: Michèle L. Hébert X: Michèle L. Hébert

Date modified:: 2024-10-29

2024 Health System Impact Fellow Profiles

Building Health Equity Capacity in the Cancer Care of Racialized Populations in Alberta

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Implementation Strategies for Reducing Antipsychotic Medication Use in Long-term Care Homes at Vancouver Coastal Health: Closing the Learning Cycle Loop

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

A proactive approach to health: integrating personalized physical activity behaviour change support into inflammatory arthritis care

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

The real-world impact of ETI (TRIKAFTA®) on prescribing patterns, clinical outcomes, and healthcare utilization for Patients with CF living in British Columbia

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Training personal support workers for sustainable careers in long-term care

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Evaluation and Intervention Framework for Vaping Cessation in the Canadian Health System

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Applying a health equity lens to the Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) Framework

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Harnessing Research to Support Public Health Implementation: Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Syphilis Point of Care Testing

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Supporting Childhood Wellness and Nutrition: Developing School Food Programs in Saskatchewan

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

An Equity-Focused Implementation Process Evaluation of a School-Based Peer Education Youth Vaping Intervention

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Equity in Palliative Care: Exploring Promising Practices Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness in Canadian Hospices

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Understanding Provider Networks in Complex Mental Health Care Delivery in Integrated Health Systems

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Investigating how the distance between communities and community health centers in Mali affects the use of reproductive and community case management services provided by community health workers

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Improving Services for Autistic Individuals by Strengthening the Data-to-Policy Pipeline

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

The utilization of environmental genomic data in the prediction of emerging and endemic pathogen dynamics

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

A Holistic Approach to Medication Management in the Home Care Setting: Developing and Implementing an Evidence and Technology-Centered Program for Medication Management

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Advancing measurement-based care in school mental health settings: Development and implementation of a standardized protocol

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Measuring what matters: Working towards collaborative performance measurement of Ontario's public health interventions for chronic disease prevention

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

How do teams work? Exploring the social organization of work in primary care

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Enhancing case management services for older adults accessing Nova Scotia Health Continuing Care

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Optimizing Cardiac Rehabilitation: Improving Patient Benefits and Healthcare Efficiency

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Evaluating and implementing gender-affirming care in Québec: A cohort study and clinical capacity building strategy

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Amplifying patient voices to guide nutrition-focused transitions of care from hospital to home

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Development, implementation, and evaluation of a health system embedded evidence decision support program

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

’Alhgoh Ts'eke'e'ulhtsih Ts'eztidoh: We will all work together to wake up the Midwife

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Strengthening climate-resilient health systems via global health programming

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Unveiling the Hidden Health Risks in BC's Water Distribution Systems

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Integrating Machine Learning and Genomic Applications for Antimicrobial Resistance Prediction in Shigella spp., Ontario, Canada

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Community engagement and HIV research in the age of big data: Building a framework and tools for best practices

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Bolstering Equity in Canadian Health Systems: Considerations of Healthcare Access, Experiences, and Content Standards

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

An Evaluation of Models of Care for Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction Through the Use of a Microsimulation Model

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Promoting equity in reproductive health care in partnership with gender diverse communities in BC

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Quality, risk and safety objectives in a learning health system: The creation of data-driven knowledge to inform policy and practice for minimizing violence and trauma in a psychiatric hospital

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Working together to foster the development of all children in Quebec: a living laboratory to better support families and child care facilities

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Reducing the administrative burden of family physicians in British Columbia

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Informing a sustainable digital public health strategy in British Columbia

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Equity, diversity, inclusion and cultural safety in partnership with patients, families and the public

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Optimizing the impact of health innovations to reduce repeat emergency room visits by the most vulnerable seniors

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

Primary Care Innovations Amplifier

About You & Your Fellowship Program of Work

The contribution of population-based responsibility to the development of a values-based health care system: Strategic perspective of the health and welfare commissioner (Commissaire à la santé et au bien-être)