POPLAR is Taking Steps to Grow Its Database and Engage with Primary Care Clinics

Where did the summer go?! As we head into Fall, POPLAR networks are working hard to grow the POPLAR Database at ICES. One way we can quickly increase the amount of data available for research and quality improvement studies is to include data from the Community Health Centre (CHC) Database, which already sits within ICES. POPLAR data managers are actively working to create a CHC dataset that will be compatible with POPLAR data. Within the coming months, POPLAR data, including CHC data, will be ready to use.

The individual Practice-based Learning and Research Networks that make up POPLAR – covering the regions of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa area, Northern Ontario, Toronto, Hamilton area, and Southwestern Ontario – are ramping up conversations with primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and clinic directors. The goal of this work is to increase awareness of the POPLAR Database at ICES and encourage more physicians and clinics to contribute data to it. We are very appreciative of the time and effort our network directors and research coordinators are dedicating to this important work!

Additionally, POPLAR, in collaboration with ICES, is working to develop documentation and shared materials that explain the work we are doing to protect Indigenous data. As POPLAR networks increase engagement with Indigenous-led clinics and clinics across Ontario that serve Indigenous people, it is extremely important to be open, clear, and honest about how we respect Indigenous peoples' inherent right to govern their data.  

Per usual, if you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact the POPLAR team at info@poplarnetwork.ca.

We look forward to connecting and collaborating as we forge ahead on this journey of primary care enhancement and health improvement in Ontario.

Sincerely,

POPLAR Executive