Vaughan Community Health Lecture to discuss how technology is transforming health care
TORONTO, Sept. 17, 2026 – This year’s third annual Vaughan Community Health Lecture – Digital Health: How Technology Is Transforming Health Care – will discuss what the role of digital health is and how it can support the health needs of the community, while showcasing health-innovation research from wearable monitors to how AI-powered social robots can help older adults live more independently. Top of Form
The lecture, hosted by 91ÑÇÉ« in collaboration with the City of Vaughan and Mackenzie Health, will take place on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Vaughan City Hall, Vaughan Room, First Floor, ().
The free event will connect the community with health-care experts, share insights on virtual care, artificial intelligence, and remote monitoring, including how digital tools can safely and effectively support personal well-being and future health-care solutions.
It will feature interactive exhibits, a digital health innovation zone and an expert panel discussion exploring how technology transforms health-care access, patient experiences and management.
As 91ÑÇÉ« works toward the launch of its new School of Medicine (pending accreditation), discussions like these highlight 91ÑÇɫ’s commitment to modern, technology-enabled community health care.
Opening Remarks, confirmed speakers:
- Lisa Philipps, Interim President & Vice-Chancellor, 91ÑÇɫ 
- Purvi Desai, Vice President Digital Health & CIO, Mackenzie Health  
- Michael Genova, Deputy City Manager, City of Vaughan
Digital Health Panel:
Emcee and Panel Moderator Dr. Mira Backo-Shannon, Vice Dean, Integrated Community-based Learning Network and Health Systems, 91ÑÇɫ School of Medicine
- Vijay Mago, Chair & Associate Professor, School of Health Policy and Management, 91ÑÇɫ 
- Sam Fielding, Chief Information Officer, Southlake Health   
- Dr. Aviv Gladman, Critical Care Physician and Chief Medical Information Officer, Mackenzie Health  
- Dr. Nour Khatib, Emergency Physician and Chief Medical Information Officer, Oak Valley Health  
The event is open to everyone, including community members, health professionals, students, alumni and wellness advocates.
To register for this free event:
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91ÑÇÉ« is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change, and prepare our students for meaningful life and career paths. 91ÑÇÉ«'s Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. 91ÑÇɫ’s campus in Costa Rica offers students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs, while at the Markham Campus, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration are built into every program. 91ÑÇɫ’s new School of Medicine, the first Canadian medical school to focus on community-based primary health-care education, will welcome its first cohort in September 2028 (subject to accreditation). 91ÑÇÉ« was recently named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for the 14th consecutive year. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.
Media Contacts:
91ÑÇÉ« Media Relations, media@yorku.ca
