Surrey Hospitals Foundation has launched the Surrey Hospitals Health & Research Network (SH Network), a new foundation-led initiative designed to strengthen healthcare in Surrey by better coordinating research, education, and health initiatives across local care sites.
Known as the SH Network, this initiative formalizes how philanthropic, academic, and clinical partners work together to advance research and innovation rooted in Surrey.
While research, education, and grants have long been part of hospital and foundation work, the SH Network brings these efforts together under a shared framework—creating clearer pathways for collaboration and greater impact for patients and communities.
Why a network, and why now
Surrey is one of the fastest-growing regions in British Columbia, with a rapidly increasing population south of the Fraser River. As demand for care grows, so does the need to coordinate research, learning, and innovation in ways that directly support frontline teams and patient care.
The SH Network helps meet this need by embedding research directly into hospital environments and linking philanthropic investment with academic and clinical expertise. This coordinated approach supports evidence-informed practice, strengthens wrap-around care, and helps ensure innovation translates into meaningful improvements for patients and families.
“This initiative strengthens Surrey’s position as a centre for urban health innovation, while elevating patient care and supporting the next generation of health professionals.”
Nicole Robson, President and CEO
“By launching the SH Network, we are creating a system where research, education, and patient care reinforce one another,” said Nicole Robson, President and CEO of Surrey Hospitals Foundation. “This initiative strengthens Surrey’s position as a centre for urban health innovation, while elevating patient care and supporting the next generation of health professionals.”
Supporting care across Surrey’s health facilities
The SH Network supports research and health initiatives across Surrey’s healthcare facilities, including Surrey Memorial Hospital, Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre, the new Surrey Hospital, and the Czorny Alzheimer Centre, among other specialized sites.
By taking a network-wide view, the SH Network helps ensure learning, innovation, and improvements in care can be shared across our facilities, enhancing both the quality of care delivered and the experience of patients and families.
Working together to improve care
The SH Network complements existing work within Fraser Health and academic institutions, including Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Rather than replacing existing efforts, the Network strengthens coordination and creates a clear entry point for future academic, industry, and charitable partners to invest in Surrey-based health research.
“Research is not separate from care—it is a catalyst for innovation and quality improvement.”
Dr. Kate Keetch, Director of the Department of Evaluation and Research Services, Fraser Health
“Research is not separate from care—it is a catalyst for innovation and quality improvement,” said Dr. Kate Keetch, Director of the Department of Evaluation and Research Services at Fraser Health. “The Surrey Hospitals Health & Research Network will help create the conditions for evidence to shape better outcomes for patients, providers, and the health system as a whole.”
Looking ahead
As the SH Network grows, a formal Advisory Council will be established to provide governance and strategic guidance. This council will bring together healthcare, academic, philanthropic, and board leadership to support strong stewardship, transparency, and alignment with community priorities.
By coordinating research and health initiatives at a system level, the SH Network is designed to support today’s care needs while helping build a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system for Surrey’s generations to come.
Stay Connected
The Surrey Hospitals Health & Research Network is just getting started.
If you’d like to receive updates and stories about the Network as it grows, we invite you to sign up for SH Network news.
If you have questions or would like to learn more, please contact us at info@surreyhospitalsfoundation.com.
