FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Esri Canada Partners with Canadian College of Health Information Management
to Enhance Health Information Education Using GIS
Geographic information systems enable health information professionals to map and analyze information in the crucial context of location for better insights.
TORONTO (May 15, 2024) – Esri Canada, a provider of enterprise geographic information system (GIS) solutions, is pleased to announce its collaboration with the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM). This partnership aims to enhance the CCHIM Educational Resources Program (CERP) by incorporating GIS learning resources. The CERP initiative empowers academic programs with relevant resources to train the next generation of certified health information professionals in Canada.
Esri Canada has made a significant contribution to the CERP, offering access to GIS technology, and learning resources for academic programs within CCHIM’s accredited network. These resources enable health information professionals to map and integrate various data, combining location data with descriptive information. Utilizing GIS enhances the value of health data, ensuring the safety and care of patients across the county. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both organizations to improving the quality of health information education and recognizing the critical role of health information professionals in the healthcare system.
Alexander Watts, Industry Manager of Public Health at Esri Canada, stated, “Maps and geoanalytics provide health professionals with deeper insights into disease patterns, community dynamics, and barriers to care. This location-based business intelligence informs strategies for improving patients’ access to health services at a hyper-local level, enabling timely, customized, and cost-effective interventions.”
Lisa McKenzie, Director of the Canadian College of Health Information Management, commented, “We are excited to announce our partnership with Esri Canada to introduce the CHIMA GeoHub to health information students across the country. Their contribution to the CERP not only enhances the academic experience but also equips new graduates with additional skills highly valued in the workforce. Together, we aim to foster a future where health information is recognized as a crucial component in providing safe and effective care to people in Canada.”
Prior to this announcement, Esri Canada conducted a survey in the CHIMA Connection newsletter to assess awareness and usage of GIS. Three survey respondents were randomly selected to receive $50 Amazon gift cards for their valuable input. Congratulations to survey winners Heidi Evans, Erin Keogh, and Bev Knorr, and thanks to all who participated.
This partnership between Esri Canada and CCHIM underscores the increasing recognition of the vital role of health data in the health care landscape. By collaborating, both organizations aim to inspire current and future health information professionals to prioritize and advocate for the use of quality health data in all aspects of care.
For more information about Esri Canada and its initiatives, please visit esri.ca/health.
To learn more about the Canadian College of Health Information Management and the CERP, visit https://www.cchim.ca/cerp
About Esri Canada
Founded in 1984, Esri Canada provides geographic information system (GIS) solutions that empower people in business, government, and education to make informed and timely decisions by leveraging the power of mapping and spatial analytics. These solutions enable organizations to better manage their resources, plan their future and collaborate within and beyond their organization. Esri Canada’s products and services help advance successful digital transformation. The company serves more than 14,000 organizations from 15 offices across Canada and is based in Toronto. Esri Canada has been recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for eleven consecutive years. More information can be found at esri.ca. Follow Esri Canada on X (Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About the Canadian College of Health Information Management
The Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM) is the national accrediting body for Health Information Management education in Canada. CCHIM is dedicated to ensuring the development and recognition of the profession, advocating for high standards in health information management and education to improve patient care across the nation.
Contact Information
Esri Canada
press@esri.ca
Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM)
general@cchim.ca
