St. Michael's Hospital Research: MAP & UCH Pillar
MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions at St. Michael's Hospital is Canada’s largest research centre focused on health equity and the social determinants of health. Internationally recognized for groundbreaking science and innovation, MAP develops and implements real-world, evidence-driven program and policy solutions that disrupt cycles of socioeconomic exclusion and poor health. For more than 25 years, MAP has partnered with communities and policy makers across the country to take on complex issues such as homelessness, intimate partner violence, inequitable access to healthcare and the prevention of opioid-related harms. MAP’s impacts span from local to national and beyond. MAP’s vision is a healthier future for all.
The Urban and Community Health Pillar at St. Michael's Hospital compromises a diverse group of researchers focusing on a wide range of fields related to the coordination, accessibility and quality of our healthcare system.
This Pillar showcases a broad spectrum of expertise, encompassing quantitative research (including clinical trials and observational research methods), qualitative research, community and patient engagement, social epidemiology, program evaluation, and knowledge translation. Research conducted by Scientists and Investigators within this Pillar primarily aims to drive change at the clinical and policy levels. Many of our researchers collaborate closely with policymakers at all government levels and with community-based organizations.
Key research areas under the Urban and Community Health Pillar include social determinants of health, health equity, homelessness and housing, global health and the health of immigrant populations, Indigenous health, youth health, mental health and addictions, genetics, public health, and health policy. The MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions stands as a cornerstone within our Pillar, reflecting Unity Health Toronto’s longstanding commitment to serving urban and marginalized populations.
Looking forward, the Urban and Community Health Pillar aims to foster a cohesive community of researchers, staff and trainees, expand patient and community engagement in the research conducted throughout the organization, and contribute to high-quality, impactful research that directly influences clinical practice and policy across Canada and internationally.