Government of Canada Supports Healthcare Innovation with Establishment of World-Class Research Facility

SURREY, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - May 19, 2015) - Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification (WD), announced $3,596,041 in funding for Simon Fraser University and the City of Surrey to establish the ImageTech Lab, a world-class research imaging facility, located at Surrey Memorial Hospital.

The WD funding will help the lab acquire two key pieces of equipment, a magnetic resonance imaging machine (MRI) and a magnetoencephalography (MEG) machine. A first in Western Canada, this rare combination of equipment will provide unique ways to examine brain function, and provide significant opportunities to develop new diagnostics and treatments.

The ImageTech Lab draws on the strengths of partnerships from across the region, including post-secondary institutions, the local health authority and businesses in the healthcare sector. This initiative will encourage collaboration, drive innovation, and benefit patients.

Quick Facts

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to investigate the anatomy and physiology of the body. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields and radiowaves to form images of the body.
• Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a functional neuroimaging technique for mapping brain activity by recording magnetic fields produced by electrical currents occurring naturally in the brain.
• Surrey Memorial is the second largest hospital in British Columbia and has the busiest emergency department.

Quotes

"Innovation plays an important role in Canada's continued economic success and addressing healthcare issues. With our Government's support, we are helping our partners realize opportunities for innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to improved healthcare solutions."

- The Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification

"The funding so generously provided by the Government of Canada will allow for the establishment of a world-class research imaging facility in the heart of Surrey's Innovation Boulevard. The addition of ImageTech Labs will bring together the region's top health experts and give them access to the most powerful and most cutting-edge technology to advance the treatment of brain disorders and diseases."

- Linda Hepner, Mayor, City of Surrey

"This funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada will support the development of medical technologies that grow the economy and improve patient care. Our partnership with the City of Surrey is an important part of SFU's innovation strategy, and is helping to position British Columbia as a leader in health technology."

- Andrew Petter, President, Simon Fraser University

Additional Links

- Canada Strengthens Medical Research in British Columbia: http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/77_12766.asp

- Harper Government Supports Commercialization of New Technologies: http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/77_15052.asp

- Simon Fraser University: www.sfu.ca/

- City of Surrey: www.surrey.ca

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