By focusing on wellness, the SMART Fund helps community programs provide services and support before health issues become serious. Research has demonstrated that health promotion and illness prevention go hand-in-hand to reduce unnecessary use of acute care services, and to increase the health status of communities
The SMART Fund recognizes that communities are the experts at identifying their health needs and finding their own solutions. By investing in community-based and community-directed programs, SMART ensures that projects reach their populations effectively. In addition, people’s overall health improves when they experience an enhanced sense of control over the factors that impact their health and the health of their communities.
SMART projects represent a form of research and development where health care innovations can be generated and tested. Ongoing evaluation helps to identify these “promising practices” that can inform VCH policy and health service delivery, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of care.
Currently, the SMART Fund is seeking to develop partnerships with major universities to support evaluation and research and strengthen the role of the fund as a research and development program.