Connexions Resource Centre introduces new patient navigator for Outaouais English speakers

Tashi Farmilo

Connexions Resource Centre has named Andrea Liosatos as its new patient navigator, a role created to help English-speaking residents of the Outaouais region find their way through Quebec's health and social services system.

The announcement comes as part of an ongoing effort by the Gatineau-based nonprofit to reduce language and cultural barriers that English speakers can face when trying to access care in the province. The Patient Navigation program was developed to improve access to healthcare and support people through what can be a confusing system, particularly for those who are not fluent in French.

In her new position, Liosatos will work with patients, families and healthcare professionals across the Outaouais to help residents understand available services, prepare for appointments, complete forms, and connect with resources ranging from family doctors and mental health supports to housing assistance and caregiver programs. Connexions says the goal of the role is to reduce stress and improve communication between English-speaking patients and the healthcare system while promoting continuity of care.

Liosatos said that she wants people to feel comfortable reaching out even if they do not have a clear sense of what they need. She said her approach centres on listening without judgement and helping build a plan tailored to each person's situation, whether that means attending appointments with someone, researching resources or simply talking through options.

Connexions Resource Centre is a member organization supported financially in part by Quebec's Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d'expression anglaise and the Community Health and Social Services Network, known as CHSSN, a provincial organization founded in 2000 that works to improve equitable access to health and social services for Quebec's English-speaking population.

Residents can reach Liosatos by phone at 819-557-0615 or by email at a_liosatos@centreconnexions.org. More information on the broader Patient Navigator program is available at patientnavigator.ca.