Overcoming barriers to health care: Mary Laura Coady assumes role of P.E.I.'s patient navigator
CBC News | Posted: January 13, 2017 10:00 AM | Last Updated: January 13, 2017
Patient navigator service is available without a doctor's referral
P.E.I.'s patient navigator, Mary Laura Coady, is now at work, and ready to help Island patients navigate the health-care system.
Coady has worked with 10 Islanders so far, Health PEI said in a news release.
The position was announced in June, and Coady started in the position in December.
"Working directly with patients, their families and health care providers, I can help overcome barriers to accessing care, and connect patients with valuable resources on the Island and out of province," said Coady of her job.
Health system 'complex'
"Our health-care system, like any other, is complex and can be difficult to understand, especially during times of illness."
Health PEI said Coady has 11 years experience in community and acute-care settings throughout the Maritimes.
The patient navigator system can be accessed without a referral. Islanders can call 1-844-822-3141 or they can email patientnavigator@gov.pe.ca.
In addition to Coady, Health PEI also has patient navigators for cancer and stroke patients, as well as one for addictions.
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