Shelter Health Network Patient Navigator Program

Celebrating 57 Years of Service 1967 - 2024
​​A Commitment to Recovery. A Commitment to Quality.

Bridging the gap between healthcare and community

Since 2005, the Shelter Health Network (SHN) has served Hamilton’s highest-risk populations by enabling collaboration between healthcare professionals and social service agencies.

In recognition of the many barriers faced by this population, Wayside House and SHN have created a new Patient Navigator position made possible by a generous grant from The Allen and Milli Gould Family Foundation.

The Patient Navigator receives referrals from SHN’s network of healthcare professionals and assists these clients in achieving their goals as defined by the social determinants of physical and mental health. For example, clients who require assistance making appointments, fulfilling their basic needs or completing service related paperwork have all been helped by our Patient Navigator.

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Patient Navigator Outcomes

Since the role’s inception in November 2021, over 1700 hours of direct care have been provided to over 60 of Hamilton’s most vulnerable individuals. The Patient Navigator works with a diverse array of agencies including Ontario Works, YMCA, Mission Services and a number of local drop-in centres and care facilities.

Their commitment helps to extend healthcare out of the doctor’s office and into the community at large. In a system where falling through the cracks is unfortunately all too common, Wayside House and the Shelter Health Network are dedicated to providing a reliable safety net.