The digital health revolution has the potential to transform healthcare in several meaningful ways, increasing access, enhancing patient experiences, reducing costs, accelerating information sharing and advancing public health research. But reaping these benefits through the digital revolution is not without its challenges.
Now in its second year, Healthy Cities, Healthy People 2024 took place on November 12, focusing on digital health and femtech – the use of digital health applications such as software, diagnostics, products, and services to improve women’s health.
As a hospital focused on moving the needle of health equity and leading the new era of sex and gender in health, Women’s College Hospital wants to be a part of making Toronto a better, healthier place to live. Healthy Cities, Healthy People 2024 brought together a diverse group of presenters and attendees for a lively and interactive program, engaging members of the public and local community in thought-provoking discussions.
Opening remarks from Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow set the tone for a day of engaging and interactive discussion. Mayor Chow emphasized the importance of leveraging digital innovation to create healthier, more equitable cities, particularly for underserved populations. Following further remarks from WCH President and CEO Heather McPherson and Vice-President of Academics at WCH, Dr. Rulan Parekh, six varied and expert speakers took the stage, offering insights into the transformative potential of digital health while addressing the challenges it presents.
- Eileen de Villa, Medical Officer of Health, City of Toronto, who discussed her career as Toronto’s top doctor, including the use of data to engage the public during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Enid Montague: Human factors engineer, associate professor University of Toronto who presented on the critical role of human-centered automation in primary care and its inclusion in planning healthier and more equitable cities
- Goli Ameri: Head of Research, Cosm Medical, who spoke about transforming women’s pelvic health and personalized gynecological devices powered by 3D printing and Artificial Intelligence
- Carmen Logie: Canada Research Chair: Global Health Equity & Social Justice and Professor, University of Toronto and United Nations University, who explored empowering urban refugees – the role and limits of digital technology and mobile health in healthcare access
- Sarah Sharma: Professor of Media Theory and Director of the Institute of Communication, Culture, Information and Technology at the University of Toronto who discussed “digital selfie care” and how new forms of digital culture continuously reshape the contours of self-care
- Lucrezia Spagnolo: founder and CEO of VESTA Social Innovation Technologies who addressed creating safer communities – the impact of gender-based violence
The presentations were followed by a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Parekh, underscoring the immense potential of digital health to improve access, accelerate research, and enhance patient outcomes while emphasizing the need for thoughtful, inclusive implementation.
As the event concluded, participants were left inspired by the possibilities of a healthier, more equitable future for Toronto and beyond. Women’s College Hospital reaffirmed its commitment to leading this charge, ensuring that the intersection of health, technology, and equity remains at the forefront of its work.
Attendees were also treated to a community photography exhibit showcasing diverse perspectives on health and city living.
Socially isolated seniors are becoming an increasing concern in Canada. According to the Canadian Coalition for Senior’s Mental Health, one-third of older Canadians are at risk of being socially isolated, which has been linked to an increased risk for chronic diseases and illnesses.
Connecting People to Connected Communities explores the spaces, places, and services in and around St. James Town that help older adults stay healthy and well. Using pictures and stories, the project seeks to further our understanding of how we can turn individual strengths into community resiliency.
Here are some of the pictures and stories created by the project’s older adult partners.
Connecting People to Connected Communities is an Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD) University student research project led by Alex Lam & Marilyn Lo, in collaboration with Dr. Gary Bloch, Orit Adose & Nassim Vahidi-Williams from the Support Equity Engagement & Dignity (SEED) for Seniors project at St. Michael’s Hospital Academic Family Health Team. This photo exhibit was made possible with the help of St. James Town Residents Council.