The Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) announces the results of the thematic research network competition (2024-2032), launched in July 2022.

At the end of the evaluation process, 15 thematic networks were selected for funding, including the thematic network on digital health  led by Sarah Ahmed (McGill University), Philippe Després (Université Laval), Aude Motulsky (Université de Montréal), Bouchra Nasri (University of Montreal) and Martin Vallières (University of Sherbrooke).

The thematic network on digital health aims to bring together expertise and resources in digital health and quantitative methods in Quebec and will contribute to consolidating the ecosystem of researchers and stakeholders in Quebec and elsewhere. This project aims to improve health by providing innovative support to the health system, stimulating research and promoting innovation in practices and organization. It is located at the confluence of quantitative methods and digital technologies, disciplines at the intersection of health sciences, human and social sciences, as well as data sciences in the service of health. The aim is to generate relevant and contextualized knowledge, while providing researchers, decision-makers, practitioners, patients and citizens with the tools necessary to effectively navigate the digital health landscape.

Four thematic axes provide direction for the network’s scientific activities: digital platforms, data governance, modeling and digital transformation. These axes are supported by essential founding principles such as sustainable health, civic engagement, trust in digital technology, equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and open science. Three areas of strategic action have been identified to facilitate networking between the axes: capacity building, interdisciplinary training of the next generation and knowledge mobilization. Currently, the network benefits from the support and collaboration of 52 partner members, 164 regular members, and 362 student members. Together, we will propel digital health research in Quebec, to significantly contribute to the improvement of health and the health system.

Several members of ESPUM are already involved in the network in the governance axis or as a member: Marie-Pierre Sylvestre, Jean Noel Nikiema, Delphine Bosson-Rieutort, Marie-Pascale Pomey, Mireille Schnitzer, Claude Sicotte and Nadia Sourial with a very special thank you to Marie-Pierre Sylvestre for her leadership.

The management of the network would like to express its gratitude to the University of Montreal (Vice-rectorate for research, discovery, creation and innovation) and its research centers , in particular the mathematical research center , the CHUM Research Center , the Public Health Research Center , the Digital Health Consortium , Mila – Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute , and IVADO – Data Valorization Institute .

The network management enthusiastically welcomes new student, regular and partner members wishing to contribute to the advancement of digital health in Quebec. If you are passionate about the intersection of technology and health, and want to be part of a dynamic and innovative community, you are invited to join them by filling out this form.

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