Our Story
Much like the ongoing development and progress of technology, the story of Virtual Health Hub is continuously unfolding. By establishing strong partnerships, embracing innovation in virtual healthcare technology, and facilitating community-centered research initiatives, we advance toward a brighter, more equitable, and accessible healthcare future for all.
Photo: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Virtual Health Hub staff at Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies during a visit to Saskatoon to announce funding for healthcare in Indigenous communities in April 2024
Timeline
2024
Virtual Health Hub Assistant Program Launches at SIIT
September 2024
As part of our partnership with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, a new Virtual Health Hub Assistant applied certificate program was developed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required to support the delivery of virtual care and assist patients in their home communities.
The first cohort of this program began in September 2024, with students from La Loche, Stony Rapids, Pelican Narrows and Gravelbourg participating.
Advancing Antenatal Care in Ethiopia: The Impact of Tele-Ultrasound on Antenatal Ultrasound Access in Rural Ethiopia
September 2024
The Virtual Health Hub research team collaborated with clinicians and investigators in Ethiopia to deploy tele-ultrasound in underserved rural regions. This study demonstrated the feasibility of a large volume tele-ultrasound program in Ethiopia, its impact on improving the quality of antenatal care, and its sustainability. These findings lay a foundation upon which low-income countries can develop tele-ultrasound programs to improve antenatal ultrasound access.
The results of this study were formally published in September 2024 and can be viewed here.
Virtual Health Hub Announcement and Sod-Turning Ceremony Takes Place at Whitecap Dakota Nation
May 2024
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Announces Federal Funding for Virtual Health Hub
April 2024
PMO visits for VHH funding announcement.
2023
State-of-the-Art Robotic Ultrasound Arm Arrives at Virtual Health Hub
October 2023
In partnership with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), a new AI-enabled seven degrees of freedom robotic ultrasound arm began undergoing trials to deliver remote ultrasound exams at the Virtual Health Hub Remote Presence Lab.
The technology was demonstrated as part of an Open House at the SIIT campus on October 25, 2023.
Gravelbourg Ultrasonography Research Program
January 2023
A MELODY Telerobotic Ultrasound System was installed at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan as part of a research initiative to determine the feasibility of virtual ultrasound scanning in rural and remote areas. The system uses secure video conferencing, high-resolution imaging, and sophisticated remote control software to allow a sonographer to remotely manipulate the machine and communicate with the on-site assistant over an internet connection to administer an exam at a distance.
