The Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) is a coalition of federal, provincial and territorial partners led by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
- Engaging patients as partners in research;
- Ensuring that health research is relevant to patients’ and policy-makers’ priorities; and
- Ensuring research results are used to improve healthcare systems and practices.
What is Patient-Oriented Research?
Patient-oriented research engages members of the community as partners in every step of the research process, including individuals, community health workers, organizations and policymakers. Hotıì ts’eeda uses the term community member rather than patient to reflect the influence of health and wellness on the whole community.
SPOR SUPPORT (Support for People and Patient-Oriented Research and Trials) Units exist or are being built in every province and territory. SUPPORT Units work towards research-based improvements to the health care system in response to local needs. SUPPORT Units bring together key partners and provide a structure for stakeholders to identify and respond to local research priorities and needs.
SUPPORT Units conduct activities in the following areas:
- Research Methods
- Consultation and Research Services
- Data Platforms and Services
- Training and Capacity
- Knowledge Translation
- Clinical Trials
Each of these areas involve the integration of community members in every step of the research process. As Hotıì ts’eeda continues to grow, more information will be available about activities in each of the above areas.
Hotıì ts'eeda is unique in that it focuses on Indigenous health and Indigenous health research. Its Governing Council includes a majority of Indigenous Governments, along with the GNWT Department of Health and Social Services, and the University of Alberta Indigenous and Global Health Group.