Indigenous System Navigator - Emergency Department

Maamwesying North Shore Community Health Services Inc•Elliot Lake, ON

9d•CA$73,105 - CA$89,910•Hybrid

About The Position

The Indigenous System Navigator (ISN) – Emergency Department serves as a culturally safe bridge between hospital emergency departments, First Nation communities, and community-based health and social services. The primary purpose of the role is to support Indigenous patients presenting to the Emergency Department by providing advocacy, system navigation, care coordination, and culturally responsive support to improve the patient experience and health outcomes. Working collaboratively with Emergency Department clinicians, Indigenous Patient Navigators, Primary Care Providers, Home and Community Support Services, and community partners, the ISN facilitates timely access to appropriate community-based services and resources that support safe discharge planning, continuity of care, and improved transitions between hospital and home. The ISN plays a key role in identifying opportunities to prevent avoidable hospital admissions and readmissions by coordinating early intervention, connecting individuals with existing community supports, addressing barriers to care, and ensuring patients and families are informed and engaged in care planning. Through relationship building, advocacy, and collaborative care coordination, the ISN supports equitable access to health services while advancing culturally safe, person-centred care for Indigenous people across the care continuum.

Requirements

Membership, in good standing, with the applicable regulatory body: College of Nurses of Ontario or Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers
Experience in community health, hospital, emergency department, and/or Indigenous health/social service settings
Strong understanding of the health care system and community-based support
Cultural competency and knowledge of Indigenous health issues
Experience working with diverse populations (e.g. mental health, palliative, ABI, seniors, children/youth)
Clear Vulnerable Sector Check is a condition of employment
Valid Ontario Driver's License and access to a reliable vehicle

Nice To Haves

The ability to remain calm and composed during crisis or urgent situations
The ability to travel as required and at times without notice
Proficiency with computers and various database software, including electronic health records, and Microsoft Word applications
Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
Strong communication and partnership-building skills; ability to interact with clients, families, and team members with sensitivity, tact and discretion
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Proven conflict resolution skills
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and unplanned overtime as required.

Responsibilities

Support Indigenous patients presenting to the Emergency Department by providing advocacy, system navigation, care coordination, and culturally responsive support.
Facilitate timely access to appropriate community-based services and resources that support safe discharge planning, continuity of care, and improved transitions between hospital and home.
Identify opportunities to prevent avoidable hospital admissions and readmissions by coordinating early intervention, connecting individuals with existing community supports, addressing barriers to care, and ensuring patients and families are informed and engaged in care planning.
Support equitable access to health services while advancing culturally safe, person-centred care for Indigenous people across the care continuum.

Benefits

Competitive Salary based on experience
Paid Extended Health Benefits
Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
Competitive vacation package with an additional 7 Indigenous statutory holidays
10 Professional Development Days and $1200/Annual Budget
Technology Amenities provided (i.e., laptop, cell phone)
All travel expenses covered
High staff satisfaction rated work environment, priority on provider and client experience
Access to Cultural and Traditional teachings of the Ojibwe People
15 days of Personal Leave