What is the CHN Program?
It can be difficult for patients to follow clinical recommendations or access the services they need to maintain and improve their health. Patients may have difficulty due to barriers such as: financial constraints, competing priorities, complex personal circumstances, unmet language and cultural needs.
Patients are often aware of resources or next steps but taking the first step can be difficult!
The Community Health Navigator (CHN) program helps people overcome barriers to care. The CHN program provides health system navigation and connects patients with the resources and supports they want and need. The program facilitates communication between providers and their patients, improving patients’ understanding of their conditions and treatment plans. The CHN program provides patient-centred support leading to increased self-management. Health care professionals connect patients to a CHN, who then provides individualized support to help them achieve their short-term or long-term goals.
What do CHNs Do?
“Although we may not be able to change every outcome, we can positively influence a person's health journey through our knowledge, compassion, and support.”
-CHN
CHNs are team members at Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and primary care clinics across Alberta working alongside doctors, nurses, social workers, and other providers to support patients. As patient-centred care providers with strong roots in the communities they serve, CHNs are experts in local resources and services. The CHN cultivates a partnership with patients empowering them to take ownership of their health care to achieve their wellness goals. Working with primary care teams, CHNs go out into the community meeting patients where they are at and accompanying them on their journey to better health.
How does the program work?
A health care professional or community organization connects patients to the CHN program. Patients receive individualized, practical support to achieve short or long term goals, increase motivation and build self-efficacy. A health care provider or community organization may refer a patient to the CHN program if they feel the patient could benefit from extra support in managing their health or social needs. Patients who would like to be connected to a CHN can ask a participating PCN health care provider whether a referral is appropriate.
The CHN and patient work together to create meaningful goals and priorities that reflect what matters most to the patient.
Working with a Community Health Navigator (CHN) involves a series of one to one meetings designed to build a clear picture of where the patient is right now.
Using a strength based approach, the CHN helps the patient identify existing strengths and creates a foundation to build confidence and momentum. Together, they work to break down barriers that may be getting in the way of progress, whether these are practical, emotional or systemic. CHNs support the patient in building new skills and connecting with services, empowering them to move forward with greater independence and confidence.
Ready to bring Community Health Navigation to your organization?
Interested in launching a Community Health Navigation Program at your organization? Submit our quick inquiry form and we'll send you our implementation guide, packed with practical, step-by-step instructions to help you get started.