Lakeridge Health and Ontario Tech University Partner on AI Health Care Tools in Durham Region
Lakeridge Health and Ontario Tech University have established a partnership to develop artificial intelligence (AI) tools for health care in Durham Region. The partnership, called the Partnership for Advanced Technology in Health Care (PATH), was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on October 10, 2024, according to both organizations.
Both institutions state that the partnership will focus on developing AI solutions to help address health system pressures, including workforce shortages and the need for improved patient care. The collaboration aims to use AI to support clinical and administrative work at Lakeridge Health facilities.
Dr. Ilan Lenga, Chief Information Officer at Lakeridge Health, stated that the goal is to use AI to give staff and physicians more time for patient care. Dr. Lenga also said the AI tools developed through this partnership are intended to enhance, rather than replace, the work of health care professionals, with a focus on ethical and equitable use.
Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor at Ontario Tech University, commented that the partnership will allow the university to apply technological advancements to health care. Dr. Les Jacobs, Vice-President, Research and Innovation at Ontario Tech University, said this initiative matches the university’s research focus areas and offers students opportunities for practical experience in health technology.
According to Lakeridge Health, the organization has previously used digital systems such as the Emergency Department Wait Times Tracker and the Epic electronic health record system. Ontario Tech University reports that it has worked with partners on projects like developing AI accessibility standards and pursuing other health technology research.
Ontario Tech University has indicated that early projects for PATH will include monitoring patient safety, predicting hospital readmissions, and improving administrative processes. The university reports that these projects will involve its students and researchers.
Lakeridge Health operates five hospitals, four emergency departments, three critical care units, a long-term care home, and over 20 community health-care locations. Ontario Tech University is based in Oshawa and provides technology-focused education and research programs.