Welcome to the Frugal Biomedical Innovations Program!

The FBIP is a  multi-disciplinary program established to facilitate  co-design,  development and  deployment of innovative medical technologies that  improve healthcare access for patients in remote and low-resource contexts in Canada and globally. In an era when access to quality healthcare remains unequal and where vital medical resources are often out of reach for millions, the FBIP at Western University stands as a beacon of hope and sustainable innovation. 

From design to deployment, the FBIP works closely with partners, researchers, clinicians, and end users in remote and low-resource communities in  Northern Canada and Africa. Together, we are developing high-performance, low-cost medical devices, driving flexible and inclusive access to health care while meeting the unique needs of the communities where devices are most needed. 

For more information on our program, see our FBIP Lookbook. 

Our Purpose: 

To advance access to quality healthcare in remote and low-resource communities through innovative - culturally relevant and contextually appropriate - affordable medical device technologies.

"Access to health care shouldn't be bound by geography or borders. It should reach every corner, every community, every life. There is a critical need for sustainable biomedical solutions in Canada and abroad, rooted in a true understanding of the community and the people who will use them. Our program’s innovations can improve health outcomes and equity around the world. We invite champions to come alongside and support this program.” 

Margaret Mutumba, MPH, PhD, Program Director, FBIP