The Secure Health and Genomics Platform
Collaborating to aggregate health and genomic data on a trusted, pan-Canadian digital health platform.
Project Overview
Updated March 31, 2023.
The project created a framework for technical, governance and sustainment for a pan-Canadian platform for researchers, clinicians, startups, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, hospital and Canadian health authorities. Although the project group decided not to continue with the project due to other priorities, the project generated learnings that will allow them to further work as individual organizations in this space.
The Problem
Currently, valuable data in the healthcare space is siloed with no national platform for health and genomic data.
This reality is stymying the ability of researchers and clinicians to advance the development and implementation of genomic technologies and precision health initiatives.
How We Are Solving It
In response, a diverse team began developing the Secure Health and Genomic Platform (SHGP) – an integrated, secure, scalable and pan-Canadian solution for genomics and precision health. This digital platform would’ve democratized access to genomic, clinical and health information datasets to accelerate discoveries and the implementation of precision health innovation across the country. The SHGP would’ve created a data library and an application marketplace, where users could load, search and share data.
The project team was comprised of Microsoft, DNAstack, Genome BC, LifeLabs, Molecular You, Deloitte and the University of British Columbia. British Columbia’s Ministry of Health and the Provincial Health Services Authority were also participating as advisors.
This project would’ve accelerated the ability for Canadian innovators, researchers and health providers to work together to create innovative, more accessible precision health treatments for all Canadians.
Project Lead
Project Partners
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“Canada’s Digital Technology Supercluster is a unique model for collaboration and innovation. There are a lot of challenges around securely managing personal health data to respect privacy. The Supercluster gives small companies like us exposure to best practices from leaders such as Deloitte and Microsoft. What’s more, projects like these provide a lot of visibility and have opened our horizons to new possibilities."
CEO, Molecular You Read the Canadian Trade Commissioner Article (December 2019)