The program Access to Resources in the Community, or ARC, is available to anyone in North Dundas or Merrickville-Wolford. It is a patient-centred navigation model integrated in primary care practices with the intention to help individuals access resources that can address their health and social needs. The model utilizes a Patient Navigator who supports patients by finding local resources in their community. In other words, someone in need, suffering in any way from the pandemic, including emotionally, mentally, physically, financially, or psychologically, can call the ARC program. The person calling will speak to a navigator. The navigator is a bilingual layperson. They do not have clinical or medical training, but they are trained specifically in patient-centred communication, and specialises in navigation service delivery. This means they have a better knowledge of all the specific resources and the context in which they are required.
This navigator is a member of a primary care team and can promote the integration of primary and community care by improving the continuity of information and fostering recommendations to community resources by enabling those in need to access these resources. They are a bridge between what is out there, and what the client needs.
They are acquainted with many of the services available because they are generalists. They support a general population, a population not of one specific culture or demographic. They know about a wide array of resources because they are not trained in one specific modality. The navigator is able to help the client overcome barriers that might have prevented them from accessing services previously. The navigator helps link the person in need with local or virtual services, or government support programs that promote health and well-being, and help them deal with the challenges brought about by the pandemic.
Some of the services available include financial support, including programs specifically focussed on students, seniors, or those suffering income loss directly from the pandemic. Services to support mental health include online, virtual, self-directed and free services. There is help for anxiety and depression. Other supports include social support, personal safety, food security, parenting, amongst others. The goal of the navigator is to connect the person in need of help with the help they need.
The model of patient-centered non-clinical navigation link the individual to primary care or community resources. They can facilitate goal setting, arrange transportation, connect a person with language and literacy assistance, and moreover, advocate for the client’s needs, breaking down previously experienced barriers. Check out arcnavigationproject.com or call 613-562-6262
