The ideas for Health network is a new research and education cluster based at the University of Waterloo with a focus on promoting ideas – innovations in data, evidence, and application systems for the health sector. inter RAI is a collaborative network of researchers in over 20 countries committed to improving health care for persons who are elderly, frail, or disabled . The goal of inter RAI research is to promote evidence-based clinical practice and policy decisions through the collection and interpretation of high quality data about the characteristics and outcomes of persons served across a variety of health and social services settings.

The ideas for Health, inter RAI Research group connects the ideas for Health network at UW and inter RAI. Dr. John Hirdes, principle investigator for the ideas for Health, Canadian InterRAI Research group and inter RAI fellow, leads this team in participating in the research and development of interRAI instruments, as well as conducting research using inter RAI instruments in various areas of health care, including but not limited to Home Care, Mental Health, Community Mental Health, Persons with Intellectual Disability, and Palliative Care.

The ideas for Health, inter RAI Research group is also connected to the Homewood Research Institute (HRI) in Guelph , Ontario , Canada through multiple mental health projects. HRI was established by Homewood Health Centre in October, 2001 and is charged with taking a leadership role in mental health services research in Canada. The Research Institute is an embodiment of a continuing commitment by Homewood Health Centre to maintain excellence in mental health care treatment and services.