As we mark the 9th anniversary of Humber River Health (Humber), we take a moment to reflect upon and celebrate the innovations that were integral to our foundation.  Barb Collins, our President and CEO, aptly states, “Innovation isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.” This ethos continues to drive us in developing cutting-edge solutions that enhance patient care and streamline our operations. While there are many powerful innovations we’ve implemented over the last nine years that have established Humber as a leader in the healthcare landscape, here are nine unsung heroes that have been part of our founding:

1. da Vinci Surgical Robot: Pioneering Precision
   For the past nine years, our Surgery Program has been at the forefront of innovation thanks to surgical robots like the da Vinci Surgical Robot, and later ROSA®. Using innovative technologies like these surgical robots, we’ve been able to treat more patients, in less time, and with better outcomes.
2. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
   Humber was one of the first hospitals globally to implement AGVs to support supply chain automation. With ten AGVs operating within our facility, we streamline logistics and ensure that our staff can focus more on patient care rather than manual supply management.
3. Pepper: Our Robotic Companion
   Another first in Canadian healthcare, Humber introduced Pepper, a humanoid robot, to interact support our patient relations. One of the most impactful uses of Pepper has been their ability to ease the anxiety of young patients facing surgery. As a friendly robot, Pepper engages children and provides comfort and education ahead of their surgeries. Its success in helping children transition to surgical procedures has been so remarkable, that SickKids had previously sent us their patients they could not get into surgery.
4. Room Monitors for Enhanced Patient Interaction
   Our advanced room monitors allow for real-time updates and seamless communication between patients and among their healthcare team. This technology not only enhances patient satisfaction but also enables staff to spend more time with patients, fostering a more personal connection.
5. Building Automation Centre for Efficiency
   Our centralized Building Automation Centre ensures that our facilities operate smoothly and efficiently. This innovation allows us to maintain a high standard of care while minimizing disruptions, thereby improving the overall patient experience.
6. Innovative Building Design with 100% Fresh Air
   At Humber, we know that proper ventilation is crucial for health. We’ve exceeded the standard of ‘proper ventilation’ and designed our building to provide 100% fresh air, ensuring that patients and staff enjoy a clean and safe atmosphere. This focus on air quality significantly enhances overall wellness within our facility and was a critical advantage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
7. Dynamic Glass: A Canadian First
   We proudly became the first hospital in Canada to install dynamic glass, which adjusts its tint based on sunlight exposure. This innovation not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances the comfort of our patients and staff, creating a soothing environment that promotes healing. Our dynamic glass is just one example of why Humber is the second most energy efficient hospitals in the world.
8. State-of-the-art Interventional Radiology Suites
   Humber opened with hybrid suites, which are a cross between an operating room and medical imaging suite, so surgeons can see, diagnose and operate all in one room. The rooms are sterile and surgery-ready, so surgeons can use the room for imaging and then operate on the spot if needed.
9. The Command Centre: A Data-Driven Approach
   Last, but certainly not least, our Command Centre. The second of its kind in the world and the first in Canada, the Command Centre provides invaluable data links for each patient. By improving patient flow and logistics, we’ve managed to eliminate hallway healthcare—an achievement particularly noteworthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our patient harm rate stands at just 2%, significantly lower than the national average of 6%.

Conclusion

These nine innovations highlight our founding belief in lighting new ways in healthcare – a principle that continues to guide us and reinforces our commitment to excellence in healthcare. This commitment to leveraging technology and sustainable practices not only enhances patient care but also ensures that we remain at the forefront of healthcare advancements. Here’s to many more years of innovation, compassion, and excellence in patient care!