'Groundbreaking' health hub set to launch in the Sault

A new healthcare hub, designed to bridge the gap between academic research and healthcare practice in Sault Ste. Marie and Northeastern Ontario, is set to launch in the Sault this week. 

The NEO Health Hub, co-founded by Algoma University, Sault Area Hospital, and Sault College, is a central resource for researchers, offering research methodology consultation, peer review resources, ethics board support, and data management tools to facilitate impactful health research, according to a news release.

“We are dedicated to addressing the health research needs of Northeastern Ontario, developing and evaluating research initiatives, and supporting evidence-based decision-making,” said Dr. James Chan, Director of Medical Affairs and Research at Sault Area Hospital. “Through our expertise and training, we aim to empower researchers and strengthen our community’s capacity to tackle health challenges effectively.”

For more information, see the press release below: 

The NEO Health Hub (NHH), a groundbreaking initiative co-founded in the spirit of collaboration by Algoma University, Sault Area Hospital, and Sault College, has been established to bridge the gap between academic research and healthcare practice in Sault Ste. Marie and Northeastern Ontario. 

The NEO Health Hub is a central resource for researchers, offering research methodology consultation, peer review resources, ethics board support, and data management tools to facilitate impactful health research.

“We are dedicated to addressing the health research needs of Northeastern Ontario, developing and evaluating research initiatives, and supporting evidence-based decision-making,” shared Dr. James Chan, Director of Medical Affairs and Research at Sault Area Hospital. “Through our expertise and training, we aim to empower researchers and strengthen our community’s capacity to tackle health challenges effectively.”

“In Northern Ontario, limited resources and infrastructure often hinder collaboration and progress in healthcare, creating gaps that impede the development of impactful health initiatives. It’s time to overcome these challenges,” said Dr. Nirosha Murugan, Assistant Professor at Algoma University, Biology. “Our goal is to build a thriving network that fosters innovation, collaboration, and improved healthcare outcomes for Northern Ontario.”

The NEO Health Hub launch event, set for Sept. 26, 2024, will feature a keynote address by Dr. Lisa Porter from the WeSpark Health Institute that emphasizes fostering innovation and driving community-based research. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with health professionals, international medical graduates, and community members, building partnerships for future collaborations. 

“The NEO Health Hub bridges the gap between research and implementation by fostering collaboration and supporting researchers to address critical health challenges,” shared Dr. Kay Vallee, Professor at Sault College, Nursing. We empower the community through expert consultation and our extensive network to advance impactful initiatives and transform healthcare.”

To register for the NEO Health Hub launch event, click here. To learn more about the NEO Health Hub, visit neo-health-hub.ca/.