Dr. Hira Mian, oncology hematologist at HHS, is leading our hospital and Canada toward becoming international leaders in research into the treatment of multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer. Dr. Mian is the national chair of a study taking place at 30 sites across the country that holds the potential to improve the quality of life of people living with multiple myeloma while saving the Canadian health-care system millions of dollars.

Challenges faced by many families include access to healthy food and having enough of it. Gita Wahi, pediatrician at McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) and member of HHS’ Corporate EDI Steering Committee, is involved in two studies focused on supporting young patients and their families facing socio-economic challenges. Dr. Wahi’s research focuses on health promotion and health equity, including identifying and addressing unmet social needs of children and families. Her research informed the creation of a food pantry program at MCH as a resource for families in need.

Leading-edge research by Dr. Jason Roberts, cardiac electrophysiologist at HHS, has the potential to revolutionize care for patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a potentially fatal genetic condition affecting the heart’s muscle tissue, through a new drug treatment.

In 2023-24 we continued to advance work focused on leveraging AI to improve patient outcomes. For example, we’re designing and testing AI algorithms that have the power to drive better outcomes for patients with breast cancer as well as cardiac disease. HHS is also leading the way in defining how AI should be used in health care globally.

In 2023 we piloted a unique technology-based translation solution that helps patients and care providers overcome language barriers. Voyce provides access to real-time interpreters in less than 30 seconds who are trained in medical terminology. It ensures patients and the care team understand each other and the medical situation, helping to build trust, reduce frustration, and improve the timeliness of care. In 2023 the service was accessed more than 9,000 times across our hospitals.

HHS has emerged as a national leader in remote monitoring innovation which helps surgical patients recover safely at home, reducing the amount of time they spend in hospital and their risk of complications after surgery. In partnership with McMaster University, HHS received an $800,000 grant through the Canadian Foundation for Innovation to establish a unique lab at our Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre that will serve as the clinical and research hub for remote monitoring operations at HHS.