ReseNeX ACCESS 2026: Breaking Barriers to Healthcare

Abstract

ACCESS 2026 is a national, fully virtual undergraduate case competition hosted by ReseNeX, an organization committed to making research opportunities more accessible regardless of students’ background or prior connections. The 2026 competition challenged undergraduate participants to address the theme, “Breaking barriers to health care: Proposing new or improved prevention strategies using science, technology, or systems thinking.” Open to students from any university or program, ACCESS 2026 brought together 102 teams, 304 participants, and representatives from 12 universities across Canada. Competitors worked collaboratively to develop and present innovative, evidence-informed solutions to contemporary healthcare challenges. This abstract booklet showcases selected submissions from the competition and highlights the creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary perspectives of undergraduate students engaged in healthcare innovation. Through ACCESS 2026, ReseNeX continues to foster collaboration, research skill development, and equitable access to academic opportunity. Additional information about ReseNeX and ACCESS 2026 can be found at https://www.resenex.org.