Health and Life Sciences Committee
With a strong research ecosystem and resources to support innovation and advanced manufacturing, the Edmonton region is home to a vibrant and growing life science sector. The Health and Life Science Committee is focused on ensuring a stable regulatory environment, fostering innovation, and improving supports for the life science industry.
The areas monitored by the Committee include but are not limited to pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, artificial intelligence and health technology, innovation, research and development, health records and data.
Chair:
Loreen Wales, Revive Wellness
Members-at-Large:
Hana Marinkovic, Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation
Karmjit Cheema, Inn Homecare Services
Kathy Alves, Alberta Blue Cross
Kim King, King Strategies
Lisa Laferriere, Health Cities
Michelle Miller, Neogen
Natasha Laffin, Bennett Jones LLP
Tarik Alatassi, Puravita Canada
Zhen Li, TC Scientific
This committee has shaped recommendations in Chamber advocacy throughout a number of documents this year from committee-specific letters to budget and election statements. Some of the recommendations this committee helped us make to government include:
- Establish a health and life science strategy through consultation with business, agriculture, and manufacturing leaders; postsecondary institutions; innovation organizations; and municipalities.
- Invest in a dedicated life science accelerator and specialized infrastructure to support the already strong research and commercialization ecosystem.
- The Government of Alberta must urgently address the shortage of doctors, nurses, and other health professionals.
- Increased investment in mental health resources and capacity including counselling resources, attraction of mental health professionals, and resources for businesses to support their employees.
- Support the agriculture and agrifood sectors by continuing to invest in research and innovation to expand the role of technology and support the expansion of increased value-added production.
