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Vitalité Health Network and DataNB, a leading research institute at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), have signed a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at structuring and strengthening their collaboration in health data research.

This strategic partnership seeks to transform the vast amounts of data generated daily by the healthcare system into in-depth analyses capable of improving clinical practices, overall system efficiency and patient outcomes

As the province’s official data steward, DataNB provides a secure infrastructure that ensures the protection of New Brunswickers’ rights and privacy. This framework enables researchers to use administrative, social and health data to produce high-quality knowledge without compromising confidentiality.

Research teams will thus be able to conduct rigorous analyses to identify concrete opportunities for improvement in clinical practices, health policies and service organization. DataNB facilitates efficient research and informed decision-making by providing access to secure data environments and advanced analytical capabilities.

“To transform our healthcare system, we must be able to measure the impact of our initiatives and adjust course based on evidence. DataNB’s expertise and scientific rigour will strengthen our ability to leverage data strategically to better plan for and respond to health needs, both now and in the future,” said Dr. France Desrosiers, President and CEO of Vitalité Health Network.

For example, analyzing demographic and health data, including age, place of residence, and the main health conditions in a region, allows us to better target our efforts and tailor services to the real needs of New Brunswickers.

"DataNB’s focus is on supporting evidence-informed decision-making for all New Brunswickers. With approximately one-third of the province’s population being francophone, this partnership between UNB and Vitalité Health Network will help ensure our work better reflects the needs of the communities Vitalité serves, particularly in rural areas of northern New Brunswick,” said Dr. Ted McDonald, Director of DataNB.

The two organizations have maintained strong ties for several years, notably through the Maritime Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) SUPPORT Unit, which supports clinical research in the region. This new MOU helps structure and solidify this collaboration within a shared long-term vision.

Photo caption:Dr. France Desrosiers, President and CEO of Vitalité Health Network, pictured with Dr. Ted McDonald, Director of DataNB, and Kelly Scott-Storey, Associate Vice President, Research, Innovation and Partnerships at the University of New Brunswick.

Media contact

Vitalité Health Network
media@vitalitenb.ca

UNB
media@unb.ca