Health innovation

Learn how the Ministry of Health is seeking to identify and advance health innovations with the potential for broad system impact and to provide a front door to navigation through the B.C. innovation ecosystem of supports and opportunities for innovators.

About health innovation in B.C.

Innovation and partnerships are critical for the long-term sustainability of B.C.’s health care system. The Ministry of Health works with partners across the province to advance new approaches that improve patient and provider experiences, strengthen equity, and enhance system performance.

Innovation in B.C.’s health system occurs through a coordinated, system-wide approach involving the ministry, regional health authorities, First Nations Health Authority, Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), and external partners.

Innovation is led and implemented through established organizations across the health system:

• Regional health authorities and First Nations Health Authority deliver care and lead many innovation initiatives
• Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) provides province-wide clinical and shared services including procurement
• Ministry of Health provides strategic leadership, policy direction and system-wide coordination

Most innovation initiatives begin through partnerships with health authorities or system partners.

Health innovation ideas

Innovation is central to the improvement of the health system. The Ministry of Health is committed to harnessing the knowledge and expertise of those working in the health system to develop innovative solutions. There is no single application or intake process for health innovation ideas. Engagement with the health system typically happens through the following pathways:

Procurement opportunities

The Ministry of Health and health sector organizations use formal procurement processes to acquire products and services.

Opportunities are posted publicly on BC Bid Procurement Marketplace.

Pilot and partnership opportunities

Health authorities and PHSA may lead pilot projects or demonstration initiatives to test and implement new solutions. Projects are driven by identified service delivery needs and engagement generally occurs through collaboration with health system partners.

Strategic alignment with provincial priorities

Organizations whose work aligns with provincial health system priorities may explore opportunities to contribute to broader initiatives. Ministry staff are happy to engage to explore opportunities.