The Drone Transport Initiative
The Drone Transport Initiative (DTI) is exploring how drone technology can be used to improve health care for rural and remote First Nation and non-First Nation communities.
SPOTLIGHT
The Drone Transport Initiative Research Cluster!
The DTI was recently recognized as a research cluster by the UBC Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation (VPRI) Grants for Catalyzing Research Clusters (GCRC). This pioneering initiative, co-led by the UBC Faculty of Medicine, Stellat’en First Nation, the Village of Fraser Lake, and health system partners, explores how drones could revolutionize healthcare access in rural and remote communities. Currently, virtual consultations are common, but geographic barriers hinder access to diagnostic tests, medication, and medical supplies. The DTI aims to integrate drone technology into the healthcare supply chain, enhancing delivery efficiency and accessibility across British Columbia.
Phase I of the Drone Transport Initiative (see 2-minute video)
Phase I of the initiative involved over 1200 flights in twelve months, successfully transporting medication and medical supplies. This phase demonstrated the drones’ ability to strengthen patient access and provide responsive delivery between facilities, envisioning a future where drone technology is integral to BC’s healthcare landscape.
Now seeking collaboration across BC’s health system, the DTI aims to develop a scalable model for implementation in other regions. Partnerships include an interdisciplinary research cluster at UBC and engagement with the aviation sector through the Prince George Airport. The DTI cluster, comprising researchers, private companies, public sector collaborators, and regulators, focuses on co-creating innovative solutions to address health inequities and improve emergency response in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. These efforts aim to establish transferable pathways applicable across all healthcare settings in Canada.
Problems That DTI Solves
Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action
Improve Health Service Quality
Implementation Science
Evolving Health Landscape
Agile Supply Chain Response
Tackling Climate Change
Pushing Technology Limits
Partnerships
Data-Informed Policy
Co-Creating Solutions with First Nations
Partnering with First Nation communities to solve their community’s unique needs; Being guided by nation and community members on research and problems to be solved. Our approach is guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
SUPPORT THE DRONE TRANSPORT INITIATIVE
Support Our Vision
Your donation to the DTI will help us harness drone technology to enhance healthcare in rural and remote First Nation and non-First Nation communities. Each contribution, whether financial or through community engagement, brings us closer to transforming healthcare delivery. Together, we can leverage cutting-edge technology to drive meaningful change and promote health equity for all.
Our Development team would be pleased to discuss your and/or your organization’s interest in involvement with the DTI. For more information on opportunities please contact:
Stephanie Cardwell (Associate Director, Development, Faculty of Medicine)
GET INVOLVED WITH THE DRONE TRANSPORT INITIATIVE
Get Involved: Opportunities for Trainees
Are you looking to make an impact in healthcare innovation? The DTI welcomes individuals from all academic and research backgrounds who are eager to contribute to our groundbreaking projects. Whether you’re interested in drone technology, healthcare delivery, or community partnerships, there are many ways to get involved.
Visit our tab under ‘Get Involved’ to explore how you can collaborate, learn, and grow with the DTI!
News
Contact Us
For more information or inquiries on this initiative please contact us using the email below.