SPOR Networks

What is a SPOR Network?

In the context of the Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR), a network is a collaboration of patients, health service providers, policy/decision makers and health researchers across Canada. Together, they conduct research that produces information that responds to the needs of patients.

Objectives

The primary objective of SPOR Networks is to generate evidence and innovations that advance practice and policy changes leading to transformative and measurable improvements in:

  • patient health;
  • health care; and
  • efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery.

It is expected that Network participants will work cooperatively to undertake a range of activities in order to achieve this objective, including:

  • Establishing priorities and developing a nation-wide agenda of outcomes-oriented research;
  • Developing and implementing evidence-informed practices, policies, services, products and programs to improve patient outcomes, access to care and quality, efficiency and effectiveness of health care.
  • Accelerating the translation of new knowledge into clinical applications, practice and policy.
  • Strengthening the capacity to conduct patient-oriented research through training and mentoring initiatives.

Network Focus

The National Steering Committee has identified two targeted networks to deliver on the SPOR objectives:

  • Transformational Research in Adolescent Mental Health (TRAM): Network in Youth and Adolescent Mental Health: The research network aims to improve the care provided to young Canadians with mental illness by translating promising research findings into practice and policy. Please contact the TRAM Partnership Team to find out how it can help you be part of the TRAM network development process, as well as to help make links with other potential participants who may share your interests.

    Jacques Hendlisz
    TRAM Partnership Lead
    C: 514-952-2739
    T: 613-954-2474
    j.hendlisz@icloud.com

  • Community-based Primary Health Care (CBPHC) Network: The goals of the CBPHC initiative are to improve access to appropriate CBPHC, enhance patient experience, and contribute to better health outcomes. This Network is one of three components of the larger vision encompassed in the CIHR Community-Based Primary Health Care Signature Initiative which also includes support for Research Teams and Clinician Scientists / Health Professional Awards.

As part of an overall process for identifying future SPOR Networks, the SPOR National Steering Committee has issued a call for an Expression of Interest.

Health Research Investment

It is anticipated that each Network will be awarded up to $25 million in funding over 5 years. CIHR will provide up to 50% of funding. The remaining matching funding will come from eligible partners.

The process to identify future investments in SPOR Networks is underway.  Further details regards upcoming opportunities will be available in the coming months.