{"title":"Scaling Responsible Medical Text Retrieval Across Silos: Evaluating Small Language Models with Retrieval-Augmented Generation.","authors":"Rahul Shetty, Karim Keshavjee","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260043","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260043","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study evaluates small language models with FAISS and Dynamic Top-k for diabetes-focused medical text retrieval, with all-mpnet-base-v2 performing best and FAISS (FAISS Facebook AI Similarity Search) maintaining sub-2 ms latency even at tenfold scale. Dynamic Top-k improved precision and nDCG (Normalized Discounted Cumulative Gain), showing that lightweight SLM-RAG (Small Language Model-Retrieval Augmented Generation) pipelines can approach larger-model accuracy while remaining highly scalable for cloud-based EMR (Electronic Medical Record) environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"150-151"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183962","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Human Puzzle: Building Interdisciplinary Pipelines for Digital Health Innovation.","authors":"Nadeen Al-Aubadi","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260035","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260035","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Canada's healthcare system is moving toward digital transformation, but progress is slowed by persistent silos between clinical research, frontline practice, entrepreneurship, and policy. Global strategies emphasize that governance, equity, and workforce capacity are just as important as technology. In Canada, national reports highlight the need for integrated data sharing across regions and sectors. This paper presents an early case study of The Human Puzzle, a grassroots initiative launched in 2025 by an undergraduate student in applied mathematics. What began as a small experiment convening students, researchers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs revealed both the strong demand for cross-disciplinary spaces and the gaps in existing training and career pathways.. Two inaugural events, Biology Meets AI (125 participants) and Sensors, Structures, and Systems (115 participants with a 60-person waitlist), confirmed this need. The conversations sparked during and after these events shaped the initiative's next stage: mentorship pipelines, applied skills workshops, hackathons, and incubation supports. These grassroots pilots are not a substitute for system-level reform, but they generate early evidence about how bottom-up energy can complement national efforts. By testing collaborative models at a small scale, The Human Puzzle contributes to the broader movement from silos to synergy in digital health.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"132-134"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146184056","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Empowering Alzheimer's and Related Dementia Prevention Through Primary Care Using Responsible AI: A Pilot Walk-in Memory Sync Booth.","authors":"Somdatta Chakraborty Datta, Shusmita Banerjee, Uponika Barman Roy, Saikat Datta","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260040","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260040","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) remain underdiagnosed early due to reliance on costly, invasive, and time-intensive assessments, prompting development of the Memory Sync Booth, an AI-assisted walk-in screening tool for older adults. The booth delivers accessible, automated, and secure tablet-based evaluations which include orientation, attention, naming, picture description, voice analysis, and clock drawing, then processed using NLP, speech recognition, and computer vision for consistent scoring. Grounded in Responsible AI and Digital Health Innovation, it enables equitable deployment across senior community spaces and long-term care settings, with optional direct result-sharing to family doctors and automated alerts for cognitive decline. Tested with 20 volunteers aged 60+, the pilot demonstrated feasibility and potential for earlier MCI detection, reduced clinical wait times, and more proactive dementia management.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"143-144"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183896","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Do We Have Enough Information? Assessing AI Clinical Decision Support Systems for Implementation in Primary Care.","authors":"Angela Coderre-Ball, Anjana Ravi Chandran, Valentina Gnanapragasam, Rebecca Ataman, Karine Baser, Pippy Scott-Meuser","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260019","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This environmental scan examined commercially available AI clinical decision support solutions (AI-CDSS) across three domains: knowledge base, AI methodology, and privacy. Over half of vendors disclosed some information on their knowledge base, yet few demonstrated rigorous appraisal or alignment with Quality Standards or other evidence-based guidelines. Transparency on AI methods was limited as most cited proprietary algorithms but rarely described training data. Privacy information was more commonly reported but often high-level, with limited detail on compliance, storage location, or restrictions on secondary use. These gaps reveal the obstacles facing decision makers: without standardized, transparent information, organizations and governments cannot reliably evaluate AI-CDSS or provide the support clinicians need for responsible and informed implementation.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"73-77"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183919","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Improving External Provider Communication: Strengthening Continuity of Care Through Auto-Fax Innovation.","authors":"Brittany Poynter, Tania Tajirian, Jasmine Aulakh, Uzma Haider","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260036","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260036","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Transitions in care are critical safety moments in mental health. Breakdowns in communication with community providers elevate risks of relapse, suicide, and re-hospitalization. At CAMH, the Auto-Fax feature within I-CARE was designed to streamline communication with external providers but adoption has been inconsistent. A mixed-methods review using physician surveys (2023) and system analysis identified barriers including low awareness, glitches, and process gaps. Survey data showed 53% physician comfort, 65% underuse, and only 35% confidence notes reached targets. Despite HQO and CPSO standards mandating timely provider notification, autofax uptake lags. This project outlines barriers, opportunities, and system-level strategies to strengthen continuity of care, aligning with FHLIP 2026's theme 'From Silos to Synergy.'</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"135-136"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183932","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Michael Bravo, Pamela Melville, Frank Myslik, Jonathan Wong
{"title":"An Architectural Framework for a Provincial Real-Time NICU/PICU Bed Management Centre in Canadian Healthcare.","authors":"Michael Bravo, Pamela Melville, Frank Myslik, Jonathan Wong","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260020","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Efficient coordination of NICU and PICU bed availability is essential for timely care and resource optimization in Canada, yet current manual processes cause costly delays and poor patient experiences. This study outlines a provincial architecture for real-time bed management, developed through stakeholder interviews and thematic analysis. Key findings highlight the need for interoperability, centralized dashboards, and secure communication, supported by strong governance and privacy safeguards. Beyond system efficiency, improved communication with families is critical to reducing stress and hidden costs. The architectural framework offers a roadmap for provincial health leaders, emphasizing that technical solutions must be embedded within governance, collaboration, and trust to deliver sustainable improvements in pediatric critical care.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"78-82"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146184045","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Digital Transformation Strategy: A Roadmap for Implementing Outcome-Based Agreements for Innovative Medicines Within the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS) Pharmacy Department.","authors":"Yifan Cao, Kristen Thuringer, Kara Wright","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260038","DOIUrl":"10.3233/SHTI260038","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This project seeks to advance health system transformation within the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS) Pharmacy Department by developing a digital strategy for implementing outcome-based agreements (OBAs) for innovative medicines.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"139-140"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183824","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Co-Designing a Provincial Virtual Health Prioritization Framework.","authors":"Pamela Melville, Jonathan Wong","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260031","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260031","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>British Columbia's health system has rapidly expanded virtual care, resulting in over 170 initiatives across diverse clinical areas. While this growth has improved access-particularly for underserved populations-it has also led to fragmentation and duplication. To address these challenges, a co-designed Provincial Virtual Health Prioritization Framework was developed through extensive stakeholder engagement. The framework integrates strategic alignment, equity, feasibility, and global insights to guide investment decisions. It supports transparent, consensus-driven prioritization aligned with provincial goals and local needs and includes ongoing efforts to develop a benefits realization approach and mechanisms for continuous improvement.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"123-124"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183831","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Victoria Pelletier, Brian Lo, Smriti Rajkarnikar, Jamie Howarth, Giuseppe Cammisa, Damian Jankowicz
{"title":"Electronic Patient Record Implementation, an Enabler to Consolidation: Lessons from an Academic Health Science Network.","authors":"Victoria Pelletier, Brian Lo, Smriti Rajkarnikar, Jamie Howarth, Giuseppe Cammisa, Damian Jankowicz","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260027","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260027","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Consolidation of hospitals and health systems continue to grow with promises of more efficient models of care and operational improvements. However, knowledge of the drivers to support effective and successful consolidation continues to be limited. In this qualitative study, forty-five leaders were interviewed to examine the perceptions, experiences, and challenges on how the implementation of an Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system facilitated deeper integration across three sites. Key themes include the role of the EPR in system/data integration, consolidation of processes and, building relationships and enhancing cohesion. Future work should focus on integrating these leader insights with implementation activities to strengthen the design of large implementation programs to support accelerated integration.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"113-117"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183855","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Foster Mawuli, Aby Mathews Maluvelil, John Akorlie, Paul Aiello, Obed Ehoneah
{"title":"Responsible AI in Canadian Healthcare: Evaluation Frameworks, Challenges, and Policy Directions.","authors":"Foster Mawuli, Aby Mathews Maluvelil, John Akorlie, Paul Aiello, Obed Ehoneah","doi":"10.3233/SHTI260030","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.3233/SHTI260030","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare through advances in imaging, predictive analytics, and workflow optimization. However, its adoption raises concerns about fairness, transparency, accountability, and equity. Canada, with its strong AI ecosystem and publicly funded health system, is developing responsible AI (RAI) frameworks, yet gaps persist in governance and implementation. A scoping review was conducted, and the findings show Canada emphasizes coalition-building and workforce preparedness but lacks post-market monitoring, equity safeguards, and sustainable funding.</p>","PeriodicalId":94357,"journal":{"name":"Studies in health technology and informatics","volume":"334 ","pages":"121-122"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146183940","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}