The SPARK Study: Igniting Collaboration Between Learners and Clinicians to Bridge a Gap in Pediatric Care
Children’s health outcomes can change dramatically when potential issues are identified early, especially when those issues might otherwise go unnoticed. At Lakeridge Health, that “why” is driving new research focused on closing gaps in care and improving outcomes for young patients and their families.
One such effort is the “SPARK Study,” short for Screening Pediatric Anemia & Risk of Iron-Deficiency in Kids. It is a project led by Lauren Wilkinson, a second-year medical student at the Queen’s-Lakeridge Health MD Family Medicine Program, in collaboration with Lakeridge Health pediatrician Dr. Mahmoud Sakran.
Supported by $39,500 in funding from the PSI Foundation - a physician-led, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing health care through research across Ontario - the SPARK Study aims to address a gap in pediatric care: the under-detection of iron deficiency in children.
“Despite being one of the most common nutrient deficiencies, iron deficiency isn’t consistently screened for, leaving many children at risk during critical stages of growth and development,” says Wilkinson. “Knowing it can lead to developmental delays, learning and behavioural challenges, poor growth, and increased susceptibility to infections, underscores why this work matters.”
By exploring how screening can be integrated into routine hospital care using existing bloodwork, Lauren’s research has the potential to create lasting improvements in how children are diagnosed and treated, without adding extra burden for families. It is a clear example of how Lakeridge Health is advancing knowledge while directly improving care.
For Lauren, the project reflects the power of connecting clinical observation with research.
“For me, the most exciting part was seeing how an observation in the clinic could turn into meaningful research,” she explains. “We noticed that many children were iron deficient, but it wasn’t something consistently screened for. Through the SPARK Study, I’ve been able to explore this gap alongside Dr. Sakran - an experience that has been incredibly inspiring and has deepened both my passion for research and my commitment to pediatric medicine.”
This shared sense of purpose quickly grew into a strong and collaborative partnership. After being introduced to Dr. Sakran through Heidi McHattie, Manager of Academic Affairs at Lakeridge Health, Lauren became an integral part of the research process, working closely with him to translate clinical observations into a meaningful study.
“From the beginning, Lauren stood out as incredibly driven and thoughtful,” says Dr. Sakran. “She approached every step of the research process with care and determination. Watching her grow and succeed has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work as a mentor.”
“At Lakeridge Health, we’re intentional about creating an environment where learners and clinicians work side by side to turn questions from practice into meaningful research that improves care,” says Heidi. “Experiences like this not only strengthen patient outcomes but also shape confident, curious physicians who understand how to generate and apply knowledge throughout their careers. That persistence - continuing forward even when there are early challenges - is exactly what defines a strong learning culture and ultimately leads to better care for our communities.”
Indeed, during the study, Dr Sakran adds, “There were moments when things didn’t go as planned, but Lauren’s optimism and perseverance kept the momentum going.”
Lauren’s impact is already extending beyond the study itself. She has joined Lakeridge Health’s Research Program Council, contributing a learner’s perspective to research strategy and strengthening the connection between education and clinical innovation.
“Joining the Research Program Council is helping me grow as a physician-researcher and experiences like the SPARK study have shown me the real impact this work can have and have strengthened my commitment to advancing pediatric health,” says Wilkinson.
For families, this work represents more than research, it represents a future where children’s health challenges are identified earlier, treated more effectively, and prevented where possible.
Through partnerships like this, Lakeridge Health is not only training the next generation of physicians but also shaping a system where inquiry is embedded in care, ensuring healthier outcomes for children today and for years to come.