Surrey Hospitals Foundation Launches Groundbreaking Health Network

The Surrey Hospitals Foundation has unveiled an innovative health and research network designed to enhance patient care and bolster research initiatives in the Fraser Health region. This initiative, termed the SH (Surrey Hospitals) Network, aims to integrate research, education, and clinical practice to create a more effective health care system.

Nicole Robson, president and CEO of the Surrey Hospitals Foundation, highlighted the significance of this launch by stating, “By launching the SH Network, we are creating a system where research, education, and patient care reinforce one another.” This initiative not only positions Surrey as a hub for urban health innovation but also enhances the quality of care delivered across its facilities, reflecting the diversity of the local communities.

The SH Network is designed to complement the existing research efforts undertaken by Fraser Health and Simon Fraser University. Additionally, it will collaborate with other academic institutions, including the University of British Columbia and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. This collaborative approach aims to formalize partnerships among philanthropic, academic, and clinical entities, facilitating a more structured progression of health research rooted in Surrey.

According to a news release from the Surrey Hospitals Foundation dated January 22, 2024, the network will embed research directly within the hospital environment. This integration is expected to expand the research capabilities of Surrey’s hospitals, ultimately improving patient outcomes and aiding in the recruitment and retention of skilled clinicians and researchers in the region.

Dr. Kate Keetch, who serves as the director of evaluation and research services for Fraser Health, emphasized the importance of research in health care, stating, “Research is not separate from care. It is a catalyst for innovation and quality improvement in the system.” She further noted that the SH Network will enable evidence-based practices to enhance care delivery and meet the evolving needs of the community.

The establishment of the SH Network marks a significant advancement for the Surrey Hospitals Foundation and the broader Fraser Health community. By fostering a collaborative environment for research and clinical practice, the network aims to set a new standard in health care that prioritizes patient outcomes and supports the next generation of health professionals.

For more information about this initiative, visit surreyhospitalsfoundation.com/shnetwork.