ABOUT US
Our Story
Bridging Research, Policy, and Practice
The Institute for Improved Health Outcomes (IIHO) is an independent nonprofit that harnesses data and evidence to drive improvements in health care.
The challenge in healthcare is not just the discovery of solutions, but implementing them effectively in real-world settings. A healthcare system’s many organizations, roles, work practices, and technologies makes it difficult to translate research and policy into widespread, routine care. Even when improvements are introduced, they frequently fade without ongoing attention. Addressing this challenge requires coordination across jurisdictions, critical examination of existing approaches, and a balance between standardization and local adaptation. For over two decades, we have partnered with clinicians, health administrators, policymakers, and researchers to do just that.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To enable health systems to move from evidence to action, delivering measurable improvements in frontline care.
Vision
To set the standard for trusted, independent, and data-driven improvement that drives measurable excellence across Canadian health systems.
Where We Started
Founded in 2004 as the Alberta Bone and Joint Health Institute (ABJHI), the Institute grew out of a vision shared by Dr. Cy Frank and J.R. (Bud) McCaig. Both saw enormous value in creating an independent organization to serve as a catalyst for bettering patient care by influencing clinical practice, public policy, research, and the exchange of knowledge.
As stewards of the organization they founded, we at the Institute are committed to lend life and force to their legacy for years to come. Quality issues are rarely isolated; they’re deeply interconnected across business operations, sectors, and policies. This insight is shaping our evolution beyond a focus on bone and joint care to embrace a system-wide perspective. Today, we leverage our independent position to convene diverse partners and connect fragmented systems to continue driving health transformation.
Dr. Cy Frank
Founder
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J.R. (Bud) McCaig
Founder
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From Evidence to Outcomes
Discover how our strategic support helps care teams deliver excellence in health care.
Dr. Cy Frank
Founder
Dr. Cy Frank was a highly respected orthopaedic surgeon, a world-renowned researcher and an ingenious visionary. With his passion for innovation and his gift for inspiring others, he brought leading medical professionals and researchers to coalesce around his vision.
J.R. (Bud) McCaig
Founder
Mr. J.R. (Bud) McCaig, known for his business successes and immense generosity to the community, was a powerful champion of medical advancement who had a passionate commitment to a revitalized and innovative public health system for Albertans. Part of a $10-million donation he made to fund a program of excellence in joint injury and arthritis was used in 2004 to launch and operate ABJHI. Mr. McCaig also enlisted the support of other business leaders to offer guidance and governance to the new institute.