Role of the Department in the funding ecosystem
The Prince Edward Island Department of Health and Wellness is the provincial authority that sets strategic direction, policy and standards for the health system, working closely with Health PEI, Innovation PEI and other partners. Guided by the Provincial Health Plan 2023–2028 and thematic strategies such as the Mental Health and Addictions Strategy and the Digital Health Strategy, the department uses targeted funding programs to encourage innovation, support community wellness, and strengthen the health-care workforce.
Among these instruments is the Health Innovation Fund, a competitive program that provides financial assistance to new projects and initiatives across the health system. It supports the adoption of best practices, new technologies and innovative methodologies that improve quality, access and coordination of care for Islanders. Funding is allocated through formal calls for proposals with defined eligibility rules, assessment criteria and timelines, and successful applicants manage approved project budgets in line with their proposals.
Funding themes and target audiences
The department’s funding activities are aligned with four key priorities outlined in the Provincial Health Plan: keeping the Island population healthy, providing a seamless experience, ensuring equitable access, and building a healthy and sustainable workforce. Programs such as the Health Innovation Fund prioritize projects that improve working conditions for health professionals, enhance timely and appropriate care, expand access in underserved communities, and support recruitment and retention.
Eligible applicants for these funds typically include health care facilities such as hospitals and long-term care homes, community-based health service providers, professional associations and colleges, and innovators offering solutions that benefit the health and wellness of Islanders. Projects are expected to incorporate sound implementation plans, equity and inclusion considerations, risk management, clear performance indicators and strategies for long-term sustainability beyond the initial funding period.
Innovation, digital health and evaluation
Innovation and digital transformation are identified as system enablers in PEI’s health planning. Through its Digital Health Strategy, the department promotes investments in electronic medical records, virtual care, patient portals and data infrastructure to create a connected, learning health system. Funding programs may intersect with these goals by supporting pilots and projects that use digital tools to help people manage their health, improve information flow among providers, and enable data-driven decision-making.
Across its grant portfolio, the department emphasizes monitoring and evaluation. Applicants must outline expected outcomes, measurement methods and key indicators so that funded projects can demonstrate impact on access, quality of care, equity and workforce sustainability. This evidence-based approach supports accountability to Islanders and informs future program design.
Publics supported and overall impact
Through its mix of policy leadership and targeted financial assistance, the Department of Health and Wellness seeks to improve health outcomes for all residents of Prince Edward Island. Its funding supports front-line health organizations, community groups, and innovators working on chronic disease prevention and management, mental health and addictions, digital health, and workforce development. By investing in these areas, the department aims to build a more equitable, integrated and sustainable health system that allows Islanders to access the right care, at the right time, in the right place.
