A Windsor-Essex health system has joined the local consortium that promotes cooperation on health research.
Erie Shores Healthcare (ESHC) signed a memorandum of understanding this week to become a partner with WE-SPARK Health Institute. ESHC joins Windsor Regional Hospital, Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, St. Clair College, and the University of Windsor in the partnership.
"Health research has far-reaching benefits,” said WE-SPARK Health Institute Executive Director Dr. Lisa Porter. "It creates an academic culture that attracts and retains the best and brightest in healthcare, keeps our professionals current, supports the best learning experience for students, empowers and educates the community, delivers new therapies, brings in new infrastructure, provides answers to healthcare problems unique to our region, and aids in rapid adoption of the best prevention and care practices."
WE-SPARK was officially launched in March 2020 with the goal of creating a potent health research community in the region. ESHC President and CEO Kristin Kennedy said it's important for education and healthcare to be open to adapting to the changes facing Windsor-Essex.
"As our region continues to grow and evolve, it is imperative that Erie Shores HealthCare continues to grow and evolve as it relates to research and education in healthcare," said Kennedy. "Key to this outcome is continued close collaboration with our regional healthcare and education partners, with joining WE-SPARK Health Institute being an exciting next step in our efforts to drive best practices and foster an environment that helps attract and retain top healthcare professionals."
The Insitute has provided over $1-million in grants for various health research projects since its inception, which have amplified into over $36-million in grant funding for Windsor-Essex.