15 Teams in the HRDP-SK
Fifteen research teams are now actively analyzing Saskatchewan population health data through the Health Research Data Platform – Saskatchewan (HRDP-SK). This marks a significant increase in researchers using real health system data to understand the health of Saskatchewan people and health services.
Two years ago, Saskatchewan data trustees did not have consistent or coordinated processes to provide data access to health researchers. This limited researchers' capacity to study everyday health interactions, often leading to stalled projects, smaller and less representative samples, and other roadblocks. Since its January 2024 launch, the HRDP-SK has offered a coordinated, privacy-protective request process for researchers to access Saskatchewan health system data. The HRDP-SK has changed the landscape of health research in the province, allowing researchers to access health data with fewer obstacles than ever before. Faster access to multiple linked data sources has created the potential for research results that can be implemented sooner, and lead to improved health outcomes.
The research community has responded with increased demand for data services in a variety of areas. Among the 15 research projects currently using the HRDP-SK are those investing in rural health and service delivery, including the Rural Dementia Action Research program; teams conducting program evaluations of innovative health delivery models, such as the USask Chronic Pain Clinic, which uses an interprofessional care model and both virtual and in-person consultations for increased accessibility; and researchers collaborating closely with service providers to enable rapid real-world application of research findings, like those used in Sanctum 1.5.
“Researchers want and need access to health data,” says HRPD-SK Director Malori Keller. “Now that we have effective processes in place, our goal is to expand research capacity by incorporating new datasets and providing access to more research teams.”
HRDP-SK has introduced analytic and research supports to help researchers and clinician scientists effectively use administrative health data; HRDP-SK research scientists and analysts help teams develop their research protocols, questions and data needs, then provide analyst support throughout the project. Expansion through a partnership with the Clinical Research Support Unit at the University of Saskatchewan has helped address the increasing demand for analysts with experience using Saskatchewan health data.
Enhanced research capacity extends past provincial borders, as well; three projects are currently harnessing data from multiple provinces across Canada through HRDP-SK’s collaboration with the Health Data Research Network Canada. As other national studies begin integrating Saskatchewan data, it will mark a positive shift in evidence driven healthcare and help ensure Saskatchewan’s unique strengths and challenges are reflected in national policy.
“In order to make timely, evidence-based health and policy decisions, we need accessible, good source data. In Saskatchewan, we are fortunate to have access to so many good sources of health data in a secure and safe environment that protects patients’ privacy,” says Lisa Dietrich, Director, Health Information and Privacy, Saskatchewan Ministry of Health. “Continued and expanded access to Saskatchewan data is essential. We’re excited to see HRDP-SK taking us there.”